Well, I called up my bank just the other day, Wanted to check if my funds were okay, But little did I know, there was trouble in sight, Summer scams lurking, ready to take a bite.
Phishing scams are a summertime sin, Trying to trick us and reel us in, But we won't fall for their deceitful ways, Let's uncover their tricks and make them pay.
WHAT IS PHISHING?
Phishing is the most common form of cybercrime with an estimated 3.4 billion spam emails sent daily, according to Google. Now, Google blocks around 100 million emails daily, but the best advice is simple: If it looks fishy it probably is phishy.
TIP: BE PROACTIVE, BE DILIGENT, AND BE SKEPTICAL.
Phishing scams are created by thieves that are trying to deceive us. They prey on good-natured, trusting people.
WHAT IS MALWARE?
Malware is software designed to harm your computer. Malware can be installed on your computer through a variety of means, including clicking on a malicious link, opening an infected attachment, or downloading a file from an untrusted source. Once malware is installed on your computer, it can steal your personal information, damage your files, or take control of your computer.
TIP: DON’T CLICK!
Be suspicious of emails or text messages asking for personal information, such as your Social Security number, credit card number, or bank account number. Do not open attachments or click on links in emails or text messages from unknown senders. Make sure to keep your software and antivirus software up to date and check your credit card statements often.
WHAT IS IMPERSONATION FRAUD?
Impersonation fraud is a type of scam where scammers pose as a legitimate company to trick people into giving them personal information or money. Scammers may use a variety of methods to impersonate companies, including creating fake websites, sending phishing emails, or making phone calls.
TIP: VERIFY, VERIFY, VERIFY!
Scammers may create fake websites that look like the real website of a legitimate company. Once you enter your personal information on the site, scammers will steal it, sell it, or use it.
WHAT IS THE "FREE" VACATION SCAM?
Have you ever received an email from someone offering a free or discounted vacation? The email says that with a simple click and some personal information, the free vacation is yours. A click later, your personal information is sold to scammers and your “free” vacation is an empty bank account.
TIP: CONFIRM YOUR THIRD-PARTY BOOKING SITE.
Many of us book flights or hotels through a third-party booking website. Make sure to do your research and confirm the party you’re using is, in fact, a legitimate third party. Sometimes all it takes is a quick Google search to confirm your suspicions.
WHAT ARE THE LATEST PHONE SCAMS?
From parent/grandparent scams where someone claims to be your child/grandchild in need of immediate cash, to imposter scams from a government agency, and lottery scams that claim you have won a sweepstake that requires you to pay a fee to unlock your winnings… scammers have tried it all! Do not fall prey to these tricks.
TIP: BE PREPARED!
In the age of AI where voice mimicking is becoming more prevalent, it’s important to be prepared. Phone scams claiming your child or grandchild is in jail in another state and they need bail money happen daily. Ask questions and have a “safe word” for friends and family.
WHAT ARE THE LATEST SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMS?
If you have Facebook it’s highly likely one of your friends put up the status “I’ve been hacked. Don’t accept any new friend requests from me!”
Scammers and hackers are using tactics like catfishing to scam people through social media. They’ll duplicate your profile and send out new friend requests or hack into your existing profile to message your connections and ask for money or their personal information. How are they hacking into your existing profile? Through unsecure links! Bringing us back to the tip of “DON’T CLICK” especially on anything that looks suspicious.
It’s very important to have unique passwords so they can’t easily be guessed. Once the hacker changes your password it can be very difficult to gain control of your account. Layer your security on your social accounts with your mobile number or an email address so you can stop someone from changing your password or logging in from unknown devices.
TIP: IF IT SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS.
Don't click on any links in messages from people you don't know. Even if the message looks like it's from a friend, it could be from a scammer.
Education is key to combating this threat, Knowing their tricks, we won't easily forget. We'll watch for red flags, be cautious and wise, We’ve got your back to avoid their guise.
If you’re unsure ask!
When in doubt, we’re here to help. If an email, text, or phone call seems frighteningly phishy, give us a call. The best news? You aren’t in this alone. Together we will make sure to fight the phishermen and help you avoid the Summertime Scam Blues.