In a world with progressively life like Artificial Intelligence, Deep Fakes, and convincing scammers, it is becoming increasingly important to be vigilant about your cyber security.
In the past, cyber security was exclusively focused on computer viruses and email scams, nowadays it is becoming increasingly robust. Potential scams can occur in the form of phone calls, text messages, fake websites, even fake videos, making it even more important to verify with a trustworthy source when sensitive information is involved. Fortunately, even with the abundance of bad actors in the current datasphere, there are tools, tricks, and processes that can limit the possibility of fraud or scams affecting you.
Red Flags to Look Out For
- Anyone calling and asking for identifying information such as social security numbers, account numbers, passwords, etc.
- Emails from unknown sources, particularly those that include links or pdf attachments. (DON’T USE ANYTHING IN AN EMAIL FROM AN UNTRUSTED SOURCE)
- Text messages from unknown sources, even if they already have some identifying information about you. (DON’T USE ANYTHING IN AN EMAIL FROM AN UNTRUSTED SOURCE)
- Unsolicited requests to take over your computer during Zoom or other online meetings from untrusted sources.
- Take a good look at the email address from the sender. If the company name and the “@” info that follows don’t match, it’s a scam! If an email says it is from a company, a creditor, Amazon, etc. but is from a gmail account, it is a scam!
- For instance, we just received one from this address: From: Capital One <capitalone-shira@infoblvd.com>
Actions to Proactively Protect Yourself
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication whether with Authenticator Applications on your phone (such as Microsoft Authenticator) or to a lesser extent, simple text message two-factor authentication.
- Use different passwords for different accounts – try not to fall into the trap of using the same passwords. There are applications you can use to help with this process (such as LastPass). The Apple iPhone Passwords app can be opened with your 4 digit unlock code, Be aware!
- Freeze your credit files at all three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian & Transunion), but be aware that you will have to unfreeze your credit if you do need to apply for something that needs to run a credit check.
Credit Monitoring Services
A good service to use is one of the credit monitoring services that can allow you to check your credit score & large purchases and can also alert you if your data has been compromised in a data breach.
These options run the gambit from free like Credit Karma, to paid subscriptions like IDWatchdog. Even the free service can provide some degree of protection so it depends on what you are looking for, but regardless there should be an option that will serve your needs.
Shira Ridge is Always Here for You
Shira Ridge has a plethora of checklists and other resources that can help you increase the security of your private information, and we are always available to provide insight if you are unsure about the veracity of a communication.
If you are uncertain about the communication that is coming from us or any other custodians, we are always available to provide guidance.
Cyber Security will continue to be a topic of emphasis and is only going to get more important as scammers become more advanced. Staying mindful of communications and utilizing the proper tools will ensure your security to keep your important information safe and sound.