Do you know someone who has fallen victim to online scams and wants to avoid going down that route?
Every year, millions of people fall victim to cyber-crime, with the US Federal Trade Commission reporting that they received 4.7 million complaints of cyber-crime in 2020, with 2.2 million being fraud-related.
Online scammers have become smarter and bolder as they are constantly changing tact and techniques. So, here is how to reduce your chances of falling victim.
Protect your Devices with Security Software
The first and most effective way to avoid falling victim to phishing and other fraud-related internet scams is using security software.
Great security software like Kaspersky provides multiple layers of protection in one suit, which will include anti-malware, anti-spam and firewall, all of which stop anyone from accessing your data and stop any suspicious software from getting into your device software in the first place.
Never trust alarming messages
Your phone is infected with a virus, PAY to this APP Now to protect it! written in large alarming fonts, with hazard signs all over is not a way in which a legitimate security software company get you to use their software.
If you get alarming messages on your phone when visiting certain sites, do not click on any licks directed there if the message is very alarming. Often, such malware only needs you to click on the link to open yourself up to the hackers.
Instead, keep up to date with genuine security software developers, who will often try not to alarm you when informing you of security threats to your phone.
And always keep the software up to date, as newer security software will often have improved security features.
Do not share sensitive information
Reputable companies will hardly ever ask you for your sensitive information. This includes account details, personal identification numbers or any other information on yourself. In fact, a genuine company will never, ever ask you for any PIN to your accounts.
So, if you receive an email asking you for any type of sensitive information, do not open it. instead, call the company that the email is impersonating to confirm that your account is okay. Also, delete any suspicious emails without opening any links.
Set strong and unique passwords
Passwords are tiresome to come up with. However, they remain one of the best safety features online.
So, when using different platforms, experts recommend having a strong password with at least eight characters, with a combination of upper-case, lower-case and numbers, along with special characters.
Use a unique password for each site you visit online. This way, you do not give the hackers easy access to your entire database; if they manage to hack one site.
Also, change your passwords frequently.
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