Don’t Get Scammed Online: Protect Yourself in 2024

In 2023, people lost a record $12.5 billion to online scams, according to the FBI [1]. This number is likely higher because many scams go unreported. Investment scams were the most common type of scam, followed by business email compromise and tech support scams [1].

Guarding Yourself from Scams Online

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from online scams:

• Scrutinize Information You Share Online: Be cautious about what personal information you reveal online. Only share it with trusted sources and avoid giving it out to anyone you don’t know and trust.

• Suspicious Emails and Calls: Be wary of unsolicited emails, phone calls, and text messages. Don’t click on links or attachments from unknown senders. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and delete them.

• Strong Passwords: Create strong passwords and keep them confidential. Don’t reuse the same password for multiple accounts. A password manager can be a helpful tool to create and manage strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts.

• Software Updates: Keep your software up to date, including your operating system, web browser, and security software. These updates often contain security patches that can help protect you from malware and other threats.

• Secure Your Connection: Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your privacy, especially when using public Wi-Fi.

• Antivirus Software: Use reputable antivirus software to protect your computer from malware. Regularly scan your devices to detect and remove any malicious software.

• Be Wary of Unsolicited Investment Offers: Investment scams are a common type of online scam. Be wary of unsolicited investment offers, especially those that promise high returns with little risk. Always do your research before investing any money.

• Don’t Be Pressured: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making a quick decision. Don’t be pressured into giving out personal information or sending money. Take your time and do your research before responding to any request.

• Report Scams: If you think you’ve been scammed, report it to the authorities. This will help them track down the scammers and prevent others from falling victim.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from online scams.

Sources:

• [1] A Record $12.5 Billion Lost to Internet Crime in 2023?