Stay Safe from Online Threats
The internet makes life easier – but it also opens the door to scammers and cybercriminals. From phishing emails to malware, online threats can target anyone at any time. Here are some common online threats:
Phishing Emails
These are emails that look like they come from your bank, government agencies, or familiar companies. They often ask you to click a link or provide personal information.
Common Warning Signs:
- Misspellings or unusual email addresses.
- Urgent messages demanding immediate action.
- Links that don’t match the official website.
Example:
A customer received an email claiming their account was “locked.” The email included a link to “verify their information.” They noticed the sender’s address looked odd and contacted the bank directly, avoiding the scam.
Malware and Ransomware
Malware is software designed to harm your computer or steal your information. Ransomware locks your files and demands payment to release them.
Common Warning Signs:
- Pop-ups claiming your computer is infected.
- Unfamiliar downloads or attachments.
- Slow or unusual computer behavior.
Example:
Someone downloaded what appeared to be a free game online. It turned out to be malware that attempted to log keystrokes. They removed the program immediately and ran a security scan to stay safe.
Fake Websites and Online Stores
Scammers create websites that look real to trick you into buying products or sharing personal info.
Common Warning Signs:
- Prices that seem too good to be true.
- Missing HTTPS (secure connection) in the browser bar.
- Poor grammar or low-quality images.
Example:
A customer saw an ad for high-end electronics at 70% off. They noticed the website URL looked suspicious and did a quick search to confirm it was fake, preventing a scam purchase.
Social Media Scams
Social media is a great way to stay connected – but scammers know it’s an easy way to reach people. Fake profiles, phishing links, and “too good to be true” offers are all designed to trick you into sharing personal information or sending money.
Common Warning Signs:
- Messages from strangers claiming you’ve “won” a prize or inherited money.
- Links that ask you to log in to your account or share personal details.
- Friends’ accounts that suddenly send unusual requests or messages (sometimes their account has been hacked).
- Urgent requests for help or money that pressure you to act fast.
Examples:
The “Grandchild in Trouble” Scam: A scammer created a fake Facebook profile pretending to be a grandson. They messaged a grandmother asking for money to cover an “emergency” overseas.
Fake Job Offer: Someone received a LinkedIn message offering a high-paying remote job. The scammer asked for personal information and a “processing fee” to secure the position.
Online Marketplace Scam: A Facebook Marketplace seller asked a buyer to pay via an external link instead of the platform’s secure payment system.
Phishing Messages: A user received a direct message from a friend’s account with a link saying, “Check this out!” The friend’s account had been hacked. The link led to a fake login page designed to steal credentials.
“Too Good to Be True” Giveaway: A scammer posted a message claiming that anyone who shared the post could win a new smartphone. Users who clicked the link were directed to a fake survey asking for personal information.
Tips to Protect Yourself
- Always verify emails, links, and requests with the official source.
- Keep your devices and antivirus software up to date.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Avoid clicking on unknown links or downloading suspicious attachments.
- Report suspicious activity to your bank and the relevant authorities.
