Save Yourself! Providing Awareness of Cyber Fraud

Avoiding cyber fraud requires vigilance and awareness of common tactics used by cybercriminals. Here are some things to look for and steps to take to avoid falling victim to cyber fraud:

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Phishing Emails - Look for suspicious or unsolicited emails, especially from unknown senders. Check email addresses for slight variations or misspellings that mimic legitimate ones.

Beware of emails with urgent or threatening language, requests for personal information, or links to unfamiliar websites. Hover over links to preview the URL before clicking on them.

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Malicious Websites - Scrutinize website URLs for misspellings or unusual characters.

Ensure the website uses "https://" and has a padlock icon in the address bar for secure connections. Be cautious of websites that request excessive personal or financial information.

Social Engineering:

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Be skeptical of unsolicited requests for money, personal information, or passwords, especially on social media. Verify the identity of the person or organization making the request through a separate and trusted channel.

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Software Updates - Regularly update your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications to patch vulnerabilities. Beware of fake software update alerts or download links.

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Secure Passwords - Use strong, unique passwords for each online account.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security.

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Public Wi-Fi - Avoid conducting sensitive transactions or accessing confidential information on public Wi-Fi networks. Use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi for added security.

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Unsolicited Calls - Be cautious of unsolicited calls from individuals claiming to be tech support or government agencies. Verify the caller's identity independently before sharing personal or financial information.

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Social Media Privacy - Adjust privacy settings on social media accounts to limit the amount of personal information visible to the public. Be cautious about sharing personal details, travel plans, or financial information on social media.

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Suspicious Attachments - Do not open email attachments or download files from untrusted sources. Scan attachments with antivirus software before opening them.

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Financial Transactions - Verify the legitimacy of online sellers or service providers before making payments or providing credit card information. Use secure and reputable payment methods when making online purchases.

Monitor Accounts - Regularly review bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. Set up account alerts for unusual activity.

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Educate Yourself - Stay informed about cyber threats and fraud tactics by following cybersecurity news and resources. Educate family members and colleagues about cybersecurity best practices.

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Trust Your Instincts - If something seems too good to be true or raises suspicions, trust your instincts and exercise caution. If you suspect you have encountered cyber fraud or have become a victim, report it to the relevant authorities, and your financial institution, and consider seeking advice from cybersecurity professionals. Preventing cyber fraud is an ongoing process that requires diligence and awareness.