Tips to protect yourself from security scams

In an increasingly digital world, security scams have become a persistent threat, targeting individuals and businesses alike. Scammers continuously evolve their methods, using tactics such as phishing emails, fake checks and ransomware to exploit vulnerabilities. Protecting yourself requires a combination of vigilance, strong security practices and an understanding of common scam tactics.

Understanding online scams

Online scams are fraudulent schemes designed to steal personal information, money or account access. They can take many forms, including phishing, identity theft and malware attacks. For example, phishing emails often impersonate trusted organizations, urging you to click on malicious links or share sensitive information. Similarly, fake check scams involve counterfeit checks that bounce after they’ve tricked victims into wiring funds. Understanding these methods is the first step to protecting yourself.

Avoiding common scams

Awareness is your best tool against scams. One of the most common threats is phishing. These scams often masquerade as legitimate communications from trusted sources, such as your bank or a retailer. They typically contain links to fraudulent websites or attachments that install malware. To avoid falling victim, never click on links or open attachments from unfamiliar sources. Instead, navigate directly to the company’s website or contact them through official channels.

Protecting your accounts

Your email, bank and social media accounts are prime targets for cybercriminals. To protect them, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring a code or biometric verification in addition to your password.

Security questions are another line of defense but can be easily guessed if tied to publicly available information. Instead of straightforward answers, use these prompts creatively. For example, if the question is, “What’s your favorite color?” you might answer with a random phrase like “BlueRiver123.”

Regularly monitoring your accounts is equally important. Look for unauthorized transactions or login attempts and report any suspicious activity to the relevant institution immediately. If you suspect your credentials have been compromised, change your passwords and security settings right away.

Responding to a security breach

If you fall victim to a scam, swift action can minimize the damage. Contact your bank or the relevant organization to report unauthorized transactions and freeze affected accounts. File a report with the FTC's Identity Theft Website, which provides resources to help you recover from identity theft or fraud. Additionally, update your security practices to prevent future incidents, such as using stronger passwords and enabling account alerts.

Staying informed

The fight against scams is ongoing, as criminals continuously adapt their tactics. Staying educated about the latest threats is essential. Resources like the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Information page offer tips, alerts and examples of common scams. Subscribing to scam alerts can help you stay ahead of emerging risks.

Security scams are a growing challenge, but you have the power to protect yourself. By adopting strong security practices, staying informed and taking swift action when something feels suspicious, you can safeguard your personal and financial information. A few proactive steps today can make a significant difference in keeping you secure in an increasingly connected world.

Building a strong defense