SWFG - Cyber Security Tips and Tricks
Happy Black Friday!
We hope your Thanksgiving was joyous and relaxing!
Though, we can’t relax about online / email scams, especially during this time of the year.
The below screen shot is a prime example of “red-flags” to look out for in potential phishing email attempts. When receiving an email you weren’t expecting asking for action on your part to click on a link or provide information look for these highlighted red-flags.
- Microsoft was spelled incorrectly in the sender’s email address
- The document was dated 1999
- Anytime someone states they need something urgent or ASAP, I proceed with more caution.
There are numerous ways potential threats will “phish” for you to click on their links in order to steal your information. In the past, we have seen attempts like:
- An email from the IRS. The IRS will NEVER email correspondence. Their correspondence will always arrive via US Mail. Scammers want you to click on the link included in the email to put malware on your computers.
- Family member in trouble. An attempt that his been used for many years now is an email or phone call of “your grandson (insert any family member) is in trouble and needs you to send money.” The best thing to do is to hang up and call your grandson or family member directly.
- Fake purchase invoices. Be aware of unexpected receipts received via email from retailers where you do not shop. If you receive these emails, do not click on them as they may be malicious and could contain malware.
- Shipping status notifications. Watch out for fake shipping notifications received via email. Confirm you’ve actually placed an online order before clicking on a shipping alert. Even then, best practice would be to go directly to the shipping provider’s website (USPS, UPS, FedEx) and type in your tracking number.
- Holiday E-Cards. Make sure you recognize the sender before clicking on a link inside an e-card. Similarly, be mindful of Holiday Party Invitations.
Most importantly keep an eye on your bank accounts. During this time of purchasing gifts for others, make sure you monitor that all the purchases are ones you have made.
WHEN IN DOUBT, DON’T CLICK ON ANY LINKS. These scammers are extraordinarily clever and sophisticated. Last year, more than 110,000 phishing scams were detected in November and December. With Cyber Monday next week, keep an eye out for these scams and ensure you’re following safe practices when shopping online.
Any opinions are those of Stribling~Whalen Financial Group and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct.
