Scammers are getting increasingly smarter in their attempts to steal your money or personal information, so it is imperative that you be aware of their tactics. People often assume this would not happen to them, and this is a risky mindset; remember, scammers target everyone! Here is a list of the most common scams that you should be on alert for:
They claim to be your CEO or accountant
They trick you into paying a fake invoice or using you to make unauthorized transfers out of business accounts by masquerading as your CEO. They appear to have consistent knowledge regarding your company or organization and take advantage of employees who eagerly perform tasks requested of them.
Stay alert for the warning signs; if you receive an email or phone call from an unsolicited contact, notice unusual behavior such as threats or a promise of reward or a sudden pressure of urgency or request for confidentiality.
They claim to be a client or supplier
Scammers will falsely represent a service or provider and approach you or your business over the telephone, fax, email, or even a hand-written letter. They may also claim to be providing you with an inheritance, so avoid falling victim to beneficiary scams that claim to be rewarding and lead you into the false pretense that you’re the sole heir. Also keep an eye out for certain requests regarding the bank details for a payment or a change in future invoices.
Emails, phone calls and texts
Bank customers may be subjected to these frequent attacks, as scammers have become very sophisticated in their methods and are able to fool victims with emails, phone calls, and texts. They send emails that look identical to the ones that actual banks send, so look out for emails that have links to click or attachments to download and also review the language. Scammers will most likely sound urgent when approaching and apply penalties for lack of response.
Fake bank websites
These fake bank websites look legitimate, and this is created in an attempt to receive your bank credentials. Take notice of any pop-up windows asking for your details, a sense of urgency that will not occur on legitimate websites or poor grammar and spelling, as well as a flawed design on the website.
Using social media
Unfortunately, this has become a likely source for criminals to steal your personal or businless details, as these are very valuable to them. You must keep your personal information online as protected and as secure as possible. Scammers find ways to trick you into giving your name, password, credit card number or email.
As you can see, scammers are increasingly expanding their techniques and with the ever-growing technology of today. It is vital that you better protect yourself and your personal information.
