As scammers continue to evolve their tactics, staying vigilant is key to protecting yourself from fraud. Here are some essential tips to keep you safe:
Be Cautious with Unsolicited Contacts: Whether it's a phone call, email, or text, be skeptical if you weren't expecting the contact. Scammers can spoof legitimate numbers or emails, so never share personal information, passwords, or codes without verifying the source.
Avoid Clicking Unknown Links: Links from unknown senders can lead to phishing sites or malware downloads. Always verify the legitimacy of the sender before clicking on any links. If it's from a company or government agency, independently call their customer service to confirm.
Stay Smart with Phone Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, don't engage with the caller. Hang up and contact the company or organization directly using verified contact information to check if there's any legitimate reason for their call.
Keep Your Devices Updated: Regular software updates are crucial as they often include security patches that protect your devices from new threats.
Enable Multifactor Authentication: Where possible, activate multifactor authentication (MFA) on your accounts. Opt for an app-based MFA, as it's more secure than SMS-based methods, which can be vulnerable to SIM swapping.
Do Your Research: Before making a purchase or donating, research the company thoroughly. Look for reviews and potential scam warnings, and check nonprofit organizations on trusted sites like Charity Navigator.
Beware of Overpayment Refunds: Never send money back if someone overpays you. Often, the initial payment is fraudulent and will be reversed later.
Watch Out for Unusual Payment Requests: Be cautious if you're asked to make a payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards—these are common methods scammers use to get untraceable payments.
Create a Family Password: Set up a family password that can be used to verify identities when communicating with family members over the phone. This can help you avoid falling for scams involving deepfake videos or cloned voices.
By staying cautious and using these strategies, you can protect yourself from falling victim to common scams and keep your personal information secure.