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    Phishing trap: How to protect yourself from Internet scammers

    Phishing trap

    Nowadays, many people are online every day and give away a lot of their personal data. This is perfectly fine, but unfortunately, there are more and more scammers who want to misuse this data. In this blog post, I want to show you some tips and tricks on how to protect yourself from these internet scammers.

    How the phishing trap works 

    The phishing scammers’ trick is to send an email or message that looks like it comes from a trusted source. The message then asks you to click on a link or open an attachment that supposedly contains important information. However, if you do so, your computer will be infected with malware or you will be redirected to a fake website that will ask for your personal information. Phishing attacks are very dangerous because they are very well disguised and can easily fall shut.

    To protect yourself from phishing attacks, you should always be suspicious when you receive an email or message that seems suspicious. Always check exactly who the message is from before clicking on the link or opening the attachment. If you are unsure, you can also visit the company’s website directly and see if there is a message there that matches the one in the email. Also, be wary of emails or messages from unknown senders. It is best to ignore these messages altogether and delete them immediately.

    How to protect yourself from Internet scammers?

    The best way to protect yourself from Internet scammers is to pay attention. Phishing attacks are often very noticeable and easily visible if you know what to look for. So, while surfing the Internet, watch out for suspicious links or emails. If you are unsure, you can always seek the advice of a friend or expert.

    Another important tip is to enter your personal information only on trusted websites. Be careful when clicking on links in emails and make sure that the website you are on has the correct URL. Never give your information to an unknown person or to a website that is not secure.

    Always keep your computer updated so that it is protected from new threats. Install additional security software to further protect your computer. This software should be updated regularly so that it can detect and block the latest threats.

    If you think that you have already been a victim of a phishing attack, you should act immediately. Contact your bank or other institutions you have contact with online and change all your passwords. Get help from your company’s IT support and be sure to report the incident to the police.

    4 tips for safe online use

    1. Be careful with links in emails and messages.

    An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that goes for using email and other online services as well. If you receive a suspicious email, be suspicious before clicking on a link. Be sure to check the URL of the link carefully before clicking on it. If something is wrong, it may be a phishing email.

    1. Install a security program and keep it updated.

    A good way to protect yourself from phishing attacks is to install security software like Norton Security. This software will help block malicious websites and protect your computer from malware. Also, make sure your security program is always up to date. This will help you stay protected from the latest threats in the best possible way.

    1. Adjust your security settings.

    Most browsers offer the ability to customize security settings. By setting your browser to automatically block malicious websites, you minimize your risk of falling victim to a phishing attack. You can usually find this setting under the “Security Settings” or “Advanced Settings”.

    1. Be careful about sharing personal information.

    When you are online, you should always be careful about what information you share. Be suspicious of websites or services that ask for too much personal information from you. Share only the information you need, and make sure the website or service uses a secure connection (HTTPS://…. uses.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, it is important to protect yourself from phishing attacks. You can do this by visiting trustworthy sites, not clicking on suspicious links and being careful about what information you disclose on the Internet. If you follow these tips, you can protect yourself from most phishing attacks. Scammers are constantly trying to trap us. Through phishing emails, they try to get our personal information. If you come across a suspicious email, don’t enter any personal information like your name, address or password. And if you suspect that you have already been lured to a phishing website, change your password immediately and contact your Internet service provider.

     

    How to Find and Avoid Online Scams?

    How to avoid online scam

    Like all other things in the world, the internet comes with its pros and cons. One of the general issues because of the internet is online scams. According to recent stats, a mammoth amount of $323,722,996 was lost in 2021 because of various online scams. The top online scam types in 2021 were investment and dating scams.

    Everyone using the internet should understand that they are not safe from scams. As soon as you get online for any purpose, you are vulnerable to various online frauds. While the cybercrime protection authorities around the world are doing their job to save people from online scams. You must stay vigilant and look out for any kind of scam.

    Staying attentive and taking necessary preemptive measures will allow you to figure out an online scam and avoid it to keep your hard-earned money safe from scammers. It is observed that scammers use different kinds of scams to rob people of their money. We will discuss a few stand-out types of online scams and methods to avoid them here. Read on to know more.

    Phishing 

    Many people may have heard this term for the first time, but it is considered an effective method of scamming people online. The term ‘Phishing’ refers to the practice of taking someone else’s persona or pretending to be a person that doesn’t even actually exist. Phishing is generally used to scam people on social media and dating sites, where people are primarily relying on the profile you have made for the information related to you.

    The phishing method has been used to rob people who use dating sites and apps to find their soulmates online. According to recent stats, people worldwide were scammed and robbed of money that adds up to more than $50 million online because of phishing on dating sites. Additionally, you may find a person who happens to be your long-lost friend trying to reach out to you and asking for help in terms of money. The aforementioned practice can be a scam as well.

    Method to Avoid Phishing

    Social media and dating platforms are great places to interact with people, but if someone asks for money, you need to be cautious. Once you notice the red flag, try to make sure the person you are interacting with is real or using the real identity. The first step towards verification is taking the picture of that person and using the Google reverse image search utility to find out if any other profile with the same name and picture exists online.

    The image search utility displays results from all popular reverse image search platforms. If you succeed in finding multiple profiles with the same name and picture, this is the second red flag for you. After the second red flag, you should insist the person an in-person meeting with you, if the person denies it, then it is the third red flag for you. Once you have sensed all these red flags, it is time to cut off your interaction with the person and report the issue to the relevant cybercrime regulatory authority.

    Promises of Easy Money 

    Another effective method of scamming people and robbing their money online is claiming to be a helpful advisor or business entity that can help them earn easy money. Who doesn’t like to earn easy money? Many people fall into the trap of scammers and act according to their recommendation, which generally includes transferring a particular amount of money to a bank for investment purposes, or registering for investment in a specific company.

    Once people transfer their money to the said account, the scammers vanish quickly and leave no trace behind for the person who is scammed online. According to recent stats, people around the world have lost around $170 million because of investment scams. Many people have been robbed of their fortune because of these scams, and it still continues to be the number one method of robbing people of their money.

    Method to Avoid Easy Money Scams 

    You should stay alert while browsing online and never trust random ads that promise to help you earn a huge capital on your seed money. In case, if a person who presents himself as a representative of particular company messages you to invest your money in a business to earn huge ROI, it is your responsibility to verify that the company actually exists. Try to visit the office of that company in person. Make in-depth research regarding the track record of your company.

    If you fail to find out any noteworthy records of the company in the recent decade, then it is another red flag for you. Moreover, if they ask you to visit their website, pay attention to their URL. If the URL includes any other extension than ‘.com’, ‘.co’, or ‘.net’, then you should stay away from such an entity and report it to cybercrime regulatory authorities. 

    Online Scams are On the Rise: Here is How to Stay Safe

    Online Scams are On the Rise

    Online scams are on the rise and have become more sophisticated than ever. In many cases, reviews of restaurants, beauty products or just about any other things you can think of have been taken over by scammers with bots. These scams target people who get tempted to believe they can make fast cash online.

    At first, ads would pop up with a fake call to action or a link to click on. At some point, it evolved into e-mail spam, and today, it’s beyond conventional overused scams. Today, even trustful-looking websites can be fraudulent or contain potential risks for users.

     

    Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent yourself from falling victim to these scammers.

     

    1. Be Wary of Any Online Offer That’s Too Good to Be True

    When you see an offer that’s just too good to be true, chances are that is a strategy by scammers to trick you. Don’t let yourself get lured in by the promise of easy money or freebies. Check reviews before committing to anything.

     

    Most importantly, don’t give out your personal information or click on links you’re not 100% sure about. Scammers often create fake websites that look identical to the real thing to get your information.

     

    For instance, if you are a gamer looking for casino sites in the UK, scammers can come up with a replica of a UK casino not on Gamstop, and once you click it, you will get directed to their website, which might ask for your personal credit card information.

    2. Don’t Respond to Suspicious Emails or Text Messages

    If you get an email or text message from an unknown sender, chances are it’s a scammer trying to get your information. Do not respond to these messages, and do not click on any links they contain.

    Some scammers will even go so far as to spoof the sender’s address, so it looks like it’s coming from a legitimate source. If you’re unsure whether an email is legitimate, don’t hesitate to contact the company directly to inquire.

     

    3. Be Careful about What You Download

    When downloading anything online, be it a program, an app, or even a document, trust the source. If you’re not, do some research to see if others have had success with downloading from that particular site.

     

    Also, have a good antivirus program installed on your computer to catch anything that manages to slip through. Don’t forget to keep it updated!

    4. Use Strong Passwords and Don’t Reuse Them

    This one seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people still use the same password for everything. If a hacker manages to get their hands on your password, they’ll have access to everything.

     

    So ensure you use different, strong passwords for each account. And don’t forget to change them now and then to be safe.

    5. Keep Your Software Up to Date

    One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself online is to keep your software up to date. It includes your operating system and any programs or apps you have installed.

     

    Developers regularly release product updates, including security fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities. So by keeping your software up to date, you’re making it much harder for hackers to get in.

    6. Be Careful about What You Post Online

    Remember that anything you post online, whether on social media or a forum, is there for anyone to see. So be careful about what you share and who you share it with.

    If you wouldn’t want your boss or your grandmother to see it, then chances are you shouldn’t be posting it online.

    7. Do Your Research Before Donating to a Charity

    There are many great charities out there doing important work. But unfortunately, some scammers pose as charities to get your money.

    So before you donate to any organization, research first. Look for reviews and make sure they’re legitimate. 

    8. Be Wary of Clickbait

    Clickbait is a type of online advertising that uses sensationalized headlines to lure people into clicking on a link. These headlines are often exaggerated or completely false.

    While clickbait isn’t necessarily harmful, it can often be a waste of time. And in some cases, it can even lead you to malicious websites.

    9. Use a Secure Browser Extension

    Many browser extensions can help you stay safe online. Some of them will warn you if you try to visit a malicious website, while others will block pop-ups and other unwanted content. You can find a comprehensive list of browser extensions that can help improve your online safety.

    If you’re unsure which extension to choose, ask your friends or family for recommendations.

    10. Check for SSL Certification

    When you’re about to enter your personal information on a website, ensure it has an SSL certificate. Websites with an SSL certificate are safe and encrypted, meaning your data will be secure. You can tell if a website has an SSL certificate if the URL starts with “https” instead of “http.”Secure websites will also have a padlock icon next to the URL.

    11. Be Wary of Free Wi-Fi Networks

    Public Wi-Fi networks are the most insecure, which means anyone can access them. If you connect to one of these networks, scammers can easily steal your personal information.

    To stay safe, only connect to Wi-Fi networks that you trust. If you’re unsure whether a network is secure, ask a staff member before connecting.

    Online Scams are On the Rise

    Stay Safe Online!

    If you suspect you’ve been the victim of an online scam, report it to the authorities immediately. By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and others from becoming victims of fraud.

    Also read: Whatsapp scams

    How Scammers Spoof Phone Numbers

    How Scammers Spoof Phone Numbers

    Our progressive technological world is not exempted from unscrupulous telemarketers and scam artists. Almost every phone user has encountered spam or false calls from tricksters, and thinks that we can avoid them easily by just blocking the numbers. However, as technology progresses, so are the tricks and tactics of the scammers.

    Caller ID spoofing is one method telemarketers and scammers employ to subtly deceive their victims. Their method is to falsify the information of an incoming call on the receiver’s caller ID display. Answering calls like this will open an opportunity for scammers to steal valuable information from you using their social engineering tactics.

    Several phone salespersons have done this trick and they just get better at spoofing as time goes by. It may be difficult to dissolve them, but there are ways to avoid getting scammed. Phone users must learn how to recognize legitimate caller ID from the fake ones. The surest way to do this is by understanding How Scammers Spoof Phone Numbers.

    How does phone number spoofing work?

    There are many opportunities for scammers to create fake numbers especially through the works of social internet. Since most people know better not to answer calls from 1-8– numbers, numbers with unfamiliar area codes or those numbers that do not display caller ID information (e.g. “unknown”), scam artists work their way through a different method called – “spoofing.”

    Through spoofing local phone numbers, the scammers hope to manipulate the recipient rather than decline. Here are some of the variety of methods scammers tend to use.

    The Voice over IP (VoIP) technique

    The most common technique scammers use to falsify numbers is through VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP is an alternative for traditional phone services especially if you have a high speed internet connection. It works much alike through the performance of “IP address” which stands for Internet Protocol address.

    It is how computers and smartphones communicate with each other on the internet, allowing users to make and receive calls over the web. With the use of VoIP, it is more convenient to get phone services. However, VoIP services can be prone to spoofing and that’s what we want to prevent.

    Scammers take advantage of available open-source VoIP tools or they create an account with a VoIP provider that enables them to change their original number. After configuring the numbers they want to display, scammers can now execute large scale scam calls with any phone number in their database.

    Since there are VoIP providers that allow users to set up their own display number, it is possible for scammers to easily replace their caller ID with a different number of their choice after making scam calls. Nevertheless, there are VoIP carriers that intercept users from changing their configuration settings like Skype and Vonage, to prevent spoof calls.

    Prepaid Calling Card Method

    Some spoofing telemarketers work like a prepaid calling card. Customers will pay upfront for a PIN number to make calls. Then they hack the service provider to obtain the number provided, enter the pin, and the outgoing call number. A bridge is then created to change the caller ID on the recipient’s phone with the spoofed number chosen by the scammer.

    Other service providers offer a Web-based platform or mobile app that allows users to make an account, log in, and enter caller ID information with the outgoing number they are calling. Then, the provider will make calls and display the entered information as the caller ID on the recipient. Most companies use this method to send spam messages as well from spoofed numbers.

    Recognizing a spoofed phone number

    Sadly, there is no accurate way to recognize whether your number has been spoofed by scammers. Uncovering the person behind a spoofed number can only be done by phone carriers or through investigation.

    This can be time-consuming and there is no guarantee that you will get the result that you want. Nonetheless, there are strategies you can do to know if you are talking to a scammer or spoofer and how to avoid them.

    1. Ask smart questions – If an unknown person calls you and talks about business matters, be sure to ask the right questions. Know the full name of the caller, which company he/she is working for, their personal number or email, location of their company, etc. In this way, you can do research about it to check if it’s real.

    2. Do basic research – The quickest way to detect a scammer is to cross-reference whether the caller ID is the same as who the caller says they are. Although, this may not be helpful if the caller disclose that they are spoofing the company’s number for security reasons. Nevertheless, one must be careful in answering an unknown number.

    3. Call the company to confirm – If the caller claims to be part of a certain company or organization, contact the official number of the mentioned company and ask for the existence of the caller. Make sure that the contact number is official and legitimately from the company first.

    Can I Get Scammed On Ebay (Simple Ways to Avoid It)

    Can I Get Scammed On Ebay

    There is a certain satisfaction and joy that we get from online shopping. It is easy, convenient, and full of categorical options! With just a few clicks, the item you are looking for is on the way to you. One of the biggest online merchants in the US is eBay, which is best known for its auctions and consumer to consumer sales.

    Almost anyone can sell, buy, or bid their items through their eBay accounts. Everyone is welcome on this platform, but sadly, scammers have their way through as well.

    Scammers or fraudsters on eBay try their best to convince and come up with new techniques to respond to the consumers’ awareness of scamming. While they come up with creative ways, as a consumer or seller, you must know what the common ways of the fraudsters are and what you can do to protect yourself.

    Common eBay Scams for Buyers

    It’s easy to refund your money when you get scammed on eBay as a buyer. The company usually sides with the purchaser when a foul play occurs on your order. There is no need for more evidence to claim the scam for in most cases, eBay will believe your words. Nonetheless, it is better to be safe than sorry. Thus, here are some common tactics scammers do to the buyers in eBay.

    Nothing happens as you pay for your order

    This is the most common scam that still happens on eBay despite the positive feedback you see on the review section. Some scammers planned the heist for a long period of time using tiny transactions to build up a great rating to scam out a huge transaction.

    Good thing, eBay has a Money Back Guarantee feature that protects you as a buyer when the seller did not ship your item. Although, it doesn’t cover items such as: Vehicles, Real estate, Classified ads, and Business-related deals.

    How to avoid: Always check the seller’s review section and don’t be enticed easily with flowery feedback. Make sure that you see pictures and more legitimate reasons to buy the item.

    Seller inputs different names on your parcel

    The tactic here is that the Seller intentionally ships your item with an incorrect name to deceive you, thinking the parcel is not yours, and you have to return it. The downside is when you return an item to its shipping company, they can mark your package as “Refused” or “Returned” which sadly voids your eBay Money Back Guarantee.

    How to avoid: Given that you are in that situation, it is reasonable to open the package especially if you are expecting one and the delivery address on the item matches yours. You can also check the tracking number in your eBay account if it says delivered.

    False Listings and Item

    This scam strategy usually occurs when you see a hot new item and its price is way lower than its market value. Upon seeing the listing, the seller’s goal is to manipulate you into impulsively buying and checking out the item before someone else does. Only to find out in the latter, that the listing clearly states that it is the box or packaging that is being sold.

    How to avoid: Don’t get caught up so easily with gadgets or expensive items sold at such low prices. Always check the details on the listings before checking out.

    Common eBay Scams for Sellers

    Unfortunately, sellers are likely to deal with major problems when they get scammed. Scammers pretending to be buyers can deceive sellers without much fear of the consequences. Thus, to protect yourself as a seller on eBay, you must spot these common scams before they happen to you.

    Overpayment offer

    As a seller, you must be careful with over payers on eBay. Some potential buyers may contact you and offer a generous amount for the item you are selling. Then, they will promptly send you a check for you to think that they are truly interested. However, as you send the item, days later you will find out that the check is fake, leaving you with nothing.

    How to avoid: Never send your item unless you have the money in hand or in your bank. Note that it may take two weeks in your bank account to show that the check is “bounced.” So if the money appears already in your account, wait for a while to confirm that the check was valid. You may also call your bank to confirm

    Buyer offers to settle the deal outside of eBay

    When a buyer asks to transact the payment outside the eBay platform, don’t fall for it. Most may even offer cash, bank transfer, or gift cards that can entice you to oblige. However, their game here is to create a dispute once the transaction is done.

    Some even complain to eBay, declaring that your item was fake or defective. In issues like this, eBay won’t be able to help you since there is no untraceable transaction on your account.

    How to avoid: Always keep the transaction inside the platform of eBay. Don’t be fooled with generous offers just to make the transaction outside of eBay. Scammers will try their best to appear as legitimate as possible, but settling any transaction out of eBay will only make a fool out of yourself.

    No delivery or empty box delivery scam

    The empty box is also applicable to victimizing sellers on eBay. Some fake buyers will complain that the item was not received or they only receive an empty box.

    Thus, eBay will demand a refund and return of the empty box. When they claim that the package was not delivered, sellers will have to dread the burden of providing proof of transactions which eventually may lead to refunding the expensive item.

    How to avoid: Always track your shipments and keep the confirmation signature upon delivery. It can be taxing for sure, but dealing with scammers is way more stressful than protecting your transactions.

    Final Thoughts: How to deal with eBay scams?

    eBay is one of the most successful online shopping platforms in the US. Over the years, they have conquered different types of scamming complaints that made their website stronger than as it was. If you want to report a scam, eBay is ready to cooperate with you using their law enforcement system and eBay Security Center. Be safe and smart as you shop or sell online!

    Whatsapp scams-How to avoid in 2022?

    Whatsapp scams

    Whatapp is one of the most used apps in the world. People use this app for many purposes like business purposes or other different purposes. Some people use WhatsApp just for chatting with their friends. So, it is also a source of entertainment.  WhatsApp doubts to be a fortress protected by end-to-end encryption and yet it couldn’t keep itself safe from the clutches of some people. Even in the past, there has been spyware that has been compromised. Electric bill phone scams are also very dangerous scams like Whatsapp scams.

    Why WhatsApp scams?

    Whatsapp scams messages but what’s interesting is that in most of these cases it wasn’t WhatsApp’s fault that a user’s private messages will be compromised. Ask these people they’ll tell you what I mean the lack of awareness amongst some of the users is the reason that their WhatsApp chats fell into the wrong hands. So here are some rules you need to follow to make sure that your WhatsApp account stays safe.

    How to avoid WhatsApp scams?

    Method-1:

    Disable cloud backup little did people know that that’s the time when WhatsApp is most active. it’s backing up all the chats to your cloud storage. Now the reason this happens is that if you ever uninstall WhatsApp on your phone or if you’re using it on a new phone you can recover all your WhatsApp chats and media via cloud backup. Messages on WhatsApp are encrypted but whatever is being uploaded on the cloud is not so if a hacker were to gain access to that backup they can easily clone it.  Your devices copy the WhatsApp chat backup on the clone device and then read all your messages. So if you’re paranoid about your WhatsApp chats falling into the wrong hands disable the automatic cloud backup option on your WhatsApp by going to WhatsApp settings chats chat backup. Select the backup to google drive option and select never hang on.

    Methos-2:

    Manually check encryption. Whatsapp says that it’s end-to-end encrypted but you can be double sure about the encryption by checking it manually. You can do so by going to the person’s chat and tapping on their name then tapping on encryption. You will see something like this pop up this is your security code. it’s like your identity for WhatsApp and you can share it with the other person via email or any other messenger you can also scan a code to verify or ask the contact whether he or she has the same 40 digits at their end. I know it’s like a painful process but again it’s your privacy at stake.

    Method-3

    Two-step verification. Two-step verification ensures that whenever you try to activate WhatsApp on another device or a smartphone. You have to enter a six-digit code that you and only you should know this way. Even if some hacker gets a hold of your number or your WhatsApp account they cannot use your WhatsApp to message other people as both of you will be logged out of WhatsApp at the same time and then you will have to enter that six-digit code to activate WhatsApp. to activate two-step verification go to WhatsApp’s menu settings account two-step verification and then enable the option to enter your six-digit pin.

    Method-4

    Activate fingerprint or face id security. WhatsApp also gives users the option to lock WhatsApp with a fingerprint or face id. For the iPhone android users can go to WhatsApp settings accounts privacy and then right at the end there is the fingerprint unlock. Activate the option and you can choose exactly after how long you want your WhatsApp locked. Similarly, apple users must enable the face id to unlock the option on WhatsApp.

    Method-5 to avoid Whatsapp scams:

    Don’t fall for scams the last and perhaps the most important rule does not go around clicking random links that people forward you on your WhatsApp groups. These can be spyware that can be used to steal information from your phone.  Also don’t download random files that drop into your inbox from random numbers. You can also make WhatsApp safer for yourself. By disabling the option for random people to add you to groups without your permission. To do that go to settings account privacy groups. Tap my contacts so now that you know these rules. Make sure that you follow them religiously. Because it’s better to be careful now than become the headlines of tomorrow’s news.

    Bastion Balance Press Release: New Cybersecurity Software 2022

    Bastion Balance Press Release: New Cybersecurity Software 2022

    The head of the Bastion Balance online security division informed press in Korea this morning that they will be upgrading the company’s online security software. The new cybersecurity software will enhance existing online safety measures to provide even greater protection internally and for their clients from online scams and fraudulent activity. The software employs the latest cybersecurity technology and is specifically designed to shield users from cyber attacks and illegal cyber activity.

    The software is specially designed to detect and stop incidences of online security breaches and fraud. Coupled with the Bastion Balance cybersecurity track record of proactive cybercrime prevention, the new cybersecurity software implementation promises to provide even greater protection from emerging threats. Hackers and online scammers are employing an increasing variety of tools and platforms to wreak havoc on business, financial, and investment sectors. Progressively more prevalent threats include phishing website attacks, malware threats, social media profile hacks, rogue mobile application infiltration, online brand abuse, pharming attacks, and other scams.

    Cybercrime Techniques 2022

    With cybercrime techniques constantly evolving, the new software is designed to monitor and withstand attempts to infiltrate investor data via phishing scams by using enhanced anti-phishing software tools. Phishing attacks can take a variety of forms including via email communication and scam websites that seek to attain private information especially confidential login identification, investment account numbers, and credit card details. They are becoming ever more prevalent and more difficult to spot, with illegal copycat graphic imaging now able to provide a near identical match to legitimate brand sites.

    This latest cybersecurity software also has a higher level of malware protection and detection capability. It addresses malware risks speedily, reducing the amount of time your systems are exposed, thus mitigating potential financial losses or brand destruction associated with such attacks. By focusing on the removal of all components of a malware attack the malware becomes non-functional across a host of devices including laptops, smartphones and tablets. The increase in digital device use across the industry means effective malware counteraction and neutralization is more important than ever.

    Scammers On Social Media

    Social media scams have also become increasingly sophisticated with cybercriminals regularly setting up fake or copy-cat social media accounts. Their purpose is often to engage fraudulently with online brand followers and clients. Motivations for this type of online crime vary. Directing traffic to phishing sites to gain confidential login information is extremely common. Using click-bait on recognized platforms to unleash malware occurs regularly. Some social media scams steal follower or client lists to on-sell to a competitor. Other scams seek to negatively influence a company’s share price through the dissemination of false information. While some recent social media attacks involve the hijacking of an online brand profile with the purposes of demanding a ransom payment for its return to the legitimate owner. The implementation of the new software will aid the early detection of such threats through the monitoring of the social media accounts of Bastion Balance patrons.

    The incidence of rogue mobile applications and mobile malware is also increasing, causing possible disruption to services as well as introducing gateways for hackers into mobile devices and hardware. When a mobile application is used maliciously, it can enable cybercriminals to discover personal login credentials, hijack browser sessions, or take control of a mobile device. Application security installed in the new software will aid in the prevention, protection, and detection of such attacks.

    Online brand abuse takes a variety of forms. Brand impersonation and the creation of counterfeit brands is common, as is brand trademark theft, brandjacking, cybersquatting, pay-per-click abuse, counterfeiting and brand defacement. Many Bastion Balance clients have strong online brands, that require the highest level of protection. The new software aids the active monitoring of client brands as the best defense against this kind of cybercrime.

    Phishing

    Pharming attacks are a form of phishing that utilizes fake domains to imitate those of legitimate vendors. Upgraded tools in the new software can directly monitor and help remove these kinds of pharming scam sites. The effectiveness of the software is enhanced by its ability to correlate data with high-tech global communication systems to capitalize and act on the latest security risk information. Providing a holistic pharming prevention solution is part of the security approach.

    With cyber threats targeting every industry and investors in particular, maintaining the highest levels of cybersecurity is essential, especially for global wealth management firms like Bastion Balance. Keeping software regularly updated or replacing outdated software with newer and thus more effective software systems is one of the most proven and effective ways to maintain the highest levels of security, both internally and for clients.

    Bastion Balance is a global wealth management firm based in Seoul, Korea with an international presence. They would like to remind their clients never to share passwords online or by phone.

    Mount Equity Group Software Updates: Fraud Prevention Tips Press Release

    Mount Equity Group Software Updates: Fraud Prevention Tips Press Release

    Japan based financial services company, Mount Equity Group, has informed the press of a series of prevention tips that can be used to reduce user receptivity to incidences of online fraud. The international wealth management firm issued the advice from their Tokyo headquarters this morning.

    Recent fraud and scam threats have prompted the Mount Equity Group head of cybersecurity to formulate a digest of fraud prevention tips, designed to empower their clients and the global investment community against fraudulent online activity. As investors are frequently targeted by cybercriminals, this is an area of particular pertinence to Mount Equity Group clients.

    Online fraud takes many shapes and forms and can include attacks from ransomware, cyber intrusions, attacks on your business and personal email accounts, SMS, instant messaging, and social media accounts. Protecting yourself across all of these areas is the best thing you can do to avoid potential loss of money and disruption to your online activities caused by online fraud.

    Malicious Software Is Often Used To Target High Net Worth Individuals And Companies

    Here are some tips to help protect your systems from destructive Malware:

    1. Block or restrict unauthorized applications by installing application technology security, like firewalls and next-gen antivirus software across your systems.
    2. Use application patch management to repair system vulnerabilities and identify defective patches commonly used in web browsers and other applications like Flash, Microsoft Office, Java, and PDF viewers.
    3. Block macros from the internet. For Microsoft Office users, configure macro settings to allow only vetted macros with limited write access or trusted digitally signed certificates.
    4. Uninstall or disable unneeded features in your web browser, Microsoft Office, and PDF viewers. If possible, uninstall Flash and block internet ads.
    5. Enable email content filtering to only allow approved attachment types, hyperlinks, PDF, and Microsoft Office attachments.
    6. Enable web content filtering to only allow approved types of web content and block access to free domains, malicious domains, and anonymity networks.
    7. Use a gateway firewall for outbound web connections.
    8. Use multiple antivirus software from different retailers simultaneously for overlapping cybersecurity
    9. Block connectivity for removable unauthorized hardware like USB storage devices.
    10. Block internet or Wi-Fi connectivity for unauthorized devices like smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth devices.

    Phishing Scams, Invoice Fraud, Employee Impersonation, And Company Impersonation

    Other common scams use email to reach their targets. These can include phishing scams, invoice fraud, employee impersonation, and company impersonation. Many of these scams are hard to spot as they have become increasingly sophisticated and can mimic your established contacts or known companies. Here are some tips you can use to help you protect yourself from email fraud:

    1. Be cautious of requests for money, especially urgent or overdue notices – even if they appear as though they have been sent by an established supplier or known contact.
    2. Be careful of suppliers advising you that they have implemented changes to their bank account details. Always double check with the supplier first, before changing their payment details in your system.
    3. Be careful of opening email attachments and let your anti-virus software check it first. Even if the attachment has been sent to you by a known contact, they may have unknowingly been the victim of a cyberattack that has automatically sent out the attachment to all of their contacts. The attachment could contain a virus.
    4. Be careful of any requests, even if they appear to come from a known source, that want you to check or confirm your login details.

    Protect All Your Mobile Tools From Online Fraud

    With internet connectivity spanning an ever-increasing number of mobile devices, it’s important to remember to protect all your mobile tools from online fraud too. Here are some tips to help protect your SMS, instant messaging, and social media accounts across all your mobile devices:

    1. Upgrade to the latest version of your mobile device’s operating system. This includes installing any security updates.
    2. Some data can be retained and remain in the memory your device even after you think you have deleted it. Make sure you power-off your device regularly and restart it to clear old caches.
    3. Configure your device so that java and pop-ups are disabled.
    4. If you use your mobile device for banking or financial transactions, use multi-factor authentication. This can incorporate facial recognition software, fingerprint recognition, pin codes and email authentication.
    5. Make sure your profile is set to the highest security level possible.

    Treating your cybersecurity with vigilance is a personal responsibility. Stay up to date on the latest software updates and monitor media alerts that can help protect you from online fraud. Consistently checking all your hardware, software platforms, and mobile devices can help make sure all your cybersecurity needs are covered.

    Mount Equity Group would like to remind its patrons never to share passwords online or by phone.

    READ MORE: Press Release: Mount Equity Group – Cryptocurrency

    Peak Global Management Japan Have Released A Statement On Scam Prevention

    Peak Global Management Japan press release

    Peak Global Management Japan Have Released A Statement On Scam Prevention

    An alert has been issued by the Peak Global Management Japan head of cybersecurity for their global customers to be aware of a scam prevention system update that can help avert new threats to online safety. Operating from the Peak Global Management head office in Tokyo, the warning is in response to recent available updates to prevent online fraud and scams.

    Global security experts recommend applying a risk-aware strategy to cybersecurity that will also benefit Peak Global Management clients based in Japan and internationally. A key part of this strategy is the implementation of regular updates to maintain the integrity of inbuilt security measures. Keeping your systems up to date with the latest updates is one of the most important things you can do to make sure your personal details, data, and finances are protected from online security threats.

    Business and personal computers and devices usually have a default setting that will automatically provide updates to improve and update existing software to the safest version available. These updates enhance programs and applications for increased online security and provide protection from financial, data and personal identity data breaches.

    The frequency of automatic updates varies, depending on the software you have installed. But there are manual processes you can execute to boost the reliability of your security systems. This includes updating the software and apps on all of your electronic devices like mobile phones, tablets, and laptops. Leaving devices with outdated software can be an open invitation for cybercriminals to target you with a scam or other fraudulent activity.

    The good news is that software developers actively work to identify these risks and will issue timely updates and patches to provide protection from new cybersecurity threats. Regularly updating your systems has the added benefit of improving the functionality of installed systems and applications. Make sure you have selected automatic update features for your operating systems, software applications, and across all your networks:

    • Make sure you turn on automatic updates for operating systems like Microsoft Windows, Google Chrome, and Android Open Source.
    • If automatic updates are unavailable due to issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, battery issues, or a lack of storage space address the problem and then install updates asap.
    • To avoid disruption to the running of your business or personal I.T. needs you can schedule the updates for a convenient time.
    • Make sure that automatic updates are switched on for all of your anti-virus software.
    • Consider upgrading out of date hardware and software, as some upgrades will not be supported by old devices or software.

    Backing up your data on a regular basis is another way to protect yourself from the damage that can be caused by an online scam, fraud, or malicious software attack. Turn on any automatic backup functions across your systems. Make sure all your apps are kept updated, and that all your virus protection software is up to date. Update all software across all devices regularly. Intermittently backing up all your data on a removable back up storage device that you store offsite is also a good idea.

    Even with automatic scam prevention updates in place, it’s prudent to always practice vigilance in your online interactions. Two of the major red flags you need to look out for:

    Attachments

    Be wary of attachments from an unknown source. Note that scammers are skilled in the art of disguise, so they may be able to send you an email that “looks” as though it has been sent by a company that you already do business with or are familiar with. If in doubt, double-check the I.P. address of the sender. Often the address will be only slightly different from that of your genuine contact. Depending on the purpose of the scam – whether it is to illicit money, data, or release a computer virus – an attachment can be used as a way to gain access to valuable information that can be used against you.

    Updates from an unknown source

    Depending on the malware you have installed on your system, you may be prompted by an external source to install or click on a system update. Cybercriminals can exploit user fear of falling susceptible to online cybersecurity threats. They may disguise malicious software to appear as though it has been sent from a valid malware provider. Install the best malware available and check the settings so that any downloads are automatically screened before opening.

    Peak Global Management would like to remind its clients to never share passwords or confidential information. Do not comply with unsolicited requests for information, money, or any other personal data. If you are approached by anyone seeking this type of information, please report it to your local authority immediately. If in doubt, you can get in touch by contacting the Peak Global Management headquarters in Tokyo, Japan.

    How to Equip Your PC Against Online Scams?

    Online scams are a real threat these days. There are countless ways cybercriminals can sneak into your PC to steal your sensitive data or persuade you to hand it over through a well-orchestrated scam. You can never be sure which link you click on contains some sort of malware you unknowingly download on your PC. Learn how to efficiently equip your PC against online scams, phishing attempts, and similar internet perils.

    1. Use a Trustworthy Antivirus

    A good antivirus not only protects you against viruses or trojans that can infect your computer and prevent it from functioning normally. It also helps you steer clear of other forms of malware such as spyware or ransomware. Antiviruses also detect and stop adware (unwanted advertisements) and phishing websites (fake websites created for the sole purpose of collecting customers’ personal information).

    There are many antivirus providers you can choose from and many of them also offer a free version of their software. However, for increased protection, it’s better to opt for a paid version. A reliable antivirus with useful add-ons such as a VPN, a password manager, or parental controls can cost less than $80 per year. When you purchase an antivirus, you should also check if the subscription is automatically renewed. A solution with automatic renewal is better because it will keep your PC protected at any time and you don’t run the risk of remaining uncovered because you’ve forgotten to renew your plan.

    1. Use a Firewall as a Line of Defense

    All reputable antiviruses are equipped with firewalls these days. Firewalls work as a line of defense between your PC and what’s going on out there, on the vast and intricate internet. They can detect and block suspicious activity such as hacking or phishing attempts. Firewalls can also be used as separate solutions and you can easily install them on your device. Their purpose is to prevent intruders from accessing your PC. There are two types of firewalls (network and desktop) and used in conjunction, they ensure the highest level of protection.

    1. Check Your Apps for Backups

    For many, regularly updating apps is an annoying and inconvenient task. Reading an interesting article or watching a great movie just to be interrupted by a notification that urges you to update an app is frustrating. However, there is a reason why you get those notifications, especially if you’ve got an antivirus that scans outdated apps. The reason is online safety. An outdated app is like an unlocked door that allows hackers to enter your PC. Apps need to be constantly updated both for performance reasons, as this helps them work better, and for anti-malware purposes.

    1. Customize Your Toolbar

    Most popular browsers offer a customizable toolbar these days. There are different options you will find there. One that’s particularly useful for your anti-scam and anti-hacking efforts is the anti-phishing feature. Activating it only requires a few clicks and increases your security while navigating the internet using that browser. What the anti-phishing toolbar does is quickly compare an URL with a list of websites in its database. If the URL appears to come from a website that’s listed on the phishing sites list, the toolbar will immediately let you know.

    1. Avoid Pop-Ups

    Pop-ups are not always dangerous. Many legitimate websites use harmless pop-ups to promote an offer or enable their customers to get in touch with their support staff. However, if you’re browsing a certain website, and suddenly, you see a pop-up that seems to come from a different source, you should proceed with caution.

    Many online scams begin like this. Hackers use a pop-up to advertise a great discount or a promotion and once the person clicks on it, he or she downloads malicious software on their device. Another common scenario is clicking on a pop-up that directs you to a new page where you’re asked to provide your personal data.

    As a rule of thumb, it’s better to avoid clicking on pop-ups. If the offer they present lures you, start searching for more information about it. If it comes from a legit company, you will surely be able to access it on their official website. Many antiviruses provide tools that automatically block suspicious pop-ups and other unwanted ads. But if one of them slips by and ends up appearing on your screen, simply avoid it.

    Implement the measures above to stay safe while browsing. The internet is a great place, but it can also be dangerous. The last thing you want is to waste time and money on online scams.

    Post by Diamond Shield Management Korea

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