The Latest Identity Scams You Need to Watch Out For
As cybercrime continues to evolve, it’s crucial to stay aware of the latest online scams, so that you can be proactive in protecting yourself and your information. After all, knowing what to look out for can make all the difference!
To help keep you one step ahead of cybercriminals, I’ve provided tips to avoid some of the top online crimes happening right now. I’ve also included a few smart ways you can protect yourself online, so you won’t fall victim to a cyberattack.
When it comes to cybercrime prevention, awareness and detection are key if you have any questions, please give me a call. I’m always happy to help!
Smartphone Scams
Texts: Never click on a link in a text message sent from an unknown number. It may include a link to a scammer’s website or app.
Apps: Beware of apps that, once installed, steal your information. Scammers might also create a nearly identical copy of an existing app and then make money from in-app purchases.
QR Codes: Watch out for malicious QR codes created by cybercriminals that can take you to bogus websites designed to steal your personal information.
Cryptocurrency Scams
These scams often involve fake prizes, giveaways, or early investment opportunities. The scammers may create bogus or lookalike cryptocurrency websites to trick victims into sending them money, sharing login information, or “investing”.
Online Purchase Scams
Cybercriminals sell products that you’ll never receive on marketplace websites, social media, or fake e-commerce stores. At checkout, you may not have the option to use a trusted third-party platform, which allows criminals to directly access your information.
Online Dating Scams
Fraudsters use online dating apps to cultivate a relationship and earn trust, which they then exploit in order to ask you to buy them something or send them money.
Tips for Protecting Your Identity
- Avoid sending money to someone you’ve never met in person, even if you feel a deep connection. Steer clear of sharing too much personal information through websites or apps.
- Before making online purchases, be on the lookout for too-good-to-be-true prices, lack of details or high-pressure sales tactics. You can also research the company through the Better Business Bureau.
- Sign up for a credit monitoring service to get alerted when there are unexpected changes to your credit report or you’ve been compromised.
- Never share your passwords or bank information. Call your financial institution directly to verify any suspicious texts.
- Keep your smartphone safe by keeping your software up to date. Neglecting to install system or app updates can leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks.
What to do if you’ve been Compromised?
- Use IdentityTheft.gov to report it to the FTC.
- Notify your financial institution or card issuer.
- Consider a credit freeze by notifying all three major credit reporting agencies: Experian, Equifax, and Transunion.
The Boehm Team | (830) 428-8106 | info@MyBoehmTeam.com
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