Cybercrime has been everywhere this year. Even though reported attacks affect mostly large corporations, individuals must also remain vigilant, so their personal information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in the cybersecurity space to better protect your own online presence. The information I’m sharing explains the different types of phishing attacks that target consumer data. You’ll learn how these cyberattacks happen in the first place, plus what you can do to avoid inadvertently sharing your information with cybercriminals.
With so much of our personal information online, protecting it from cyberattacks should be a top priority. You’ll remain one step ahead of identity thieves when you’re able to maintain a smart presence online!
How Do Cyberattacks Happen?
Phishing Emails: Cybercriminals will try to trick you into giving up personal information by way of a fake email.
- Tip: Don’t open attachments or links in emails you aren’t expecting.
Fake Calls (Vishing): The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), banks, or other major services (like Amazon) will very rarely request personal information over the phone. Calls like these are fake. Tip: Do not return voicemails about “compromised accounts.” Instead, review account activity online, then report the fake call to that service.
- Tip: Do not return voicemails about “compromised accounts.” Instead, review account activity online, then report the fake call to that service.
Fake Texts (Smishing): Watch out for texts that request sensitive information like passwords, bank accounts, or credit card numbers.
- Tip: Most banks will never text you with information about your account. Call your financial institution’s direct line to verify any suspicious texts.
Social Media Phishing: Direct messages from fake accounts.
- Tip: If you click a link in a direct message that appears to be from a familiar account, but it prompts you to re-enter your log-in credentials, it is fake.
**Phishing incidents rose nearly 220% in 2020.1
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