Now is the best time to improve your cyber literacy and educate yourself about the risks posed by online cyberthreats.
Almost 40% more fraud reports totaling over $554 million in losses were submitted to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre in 2023 than in 2021. Additionally, as most fraud goes unreported, this number might not be accurate.
Here are descriptions of four typical scams that scammers are now using to assist you better understand what to look out for and prevent being a victim.
Job scams
Unexpected texts or emails posing as recruiters or hiring managers can be the first sign of a job scam. In addition to using classified advertisements, legitimate job search websites, and direct emails or texts, scammers will occasionally market these phony positions with false promises of “easy money.” Always do your homework on any job offers you receive, and only apply through official corporate websites or reputable job boards.
Phishing
Phishing is the technique by which scammers send emails or other messages pretending to be from reliable sources in an attempt to trick you into divulging financial or personal information, like your Social Insurance number, bank account details, credit card numbers, or passwords. If possible, use biometrics to log in to services, avoid clicking on suspicious links, update your apps and antivirus software, and enable two-step verification.
Investment fraud
With promises of “get rich quick,” targets might be tricked into “investing” substantial amounts of money in fake ventures that they will never see again. Be wary of strangers approaching you. Additionally, as much as you can, keep your personal information private, including your address, phone number, and family ties.
Online shopping fraud
Websites that post phony “customer” reviews and advertise products at prices that seem too good to be true (in an attempt to gain a customer’s personal and financial information) are just two examples of the many threats that online shoppers must be aware of. The simplest kind of security is being able to spot a deal that looks too good to be true and choosing to shop at a place you know and trust instead.
It’s usually not true when something seems too good to be true. People should be cautious and confirm who is contacting them before disclosing their personal or financial information, regardless of whether the offer is for a job, an easy investment, or a low price.
Learn more about cyber scams and how to protect yourself at: https://newscanada.com/en/Cybersecurity-awareness—How-to-avoid-4-common-scams-139964
Reference: https://newscanada.com/
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