By Aaron G.
The Internet is a fantastic tool, but it is also full of sneaky scams designed to trick you out of your money or personal information. While scams can come in all shapes and sizes, some are more common (and more convincing) than others.
Our duty within is to keep our customers safe, but attackers do not stop after the workday ends. It is important to always remain vigilant not only in the office, but also at home or while using personal devices too. Here is a quick breakdown of the usual suspects so you can stay a step ahead.
The “Tech Support” Trap
You are browsing the web when suddenly, a terrifying pop-up tells you your computer is infected. Or worse, someone calls pretending to be from Microsoft or Apple, offering to “help” or to “Run a free virus scan”.
Spoiler Alert: They are scammers! They will ask for remote access to your computer or try to charge you for bogus repairs.
Pro Tip: Legitimate tech companies never cold-call or throw scary warnings on your screen. Most times, these pop-ups are limited to your web browser only. Close the tab and report to your IT Department.
Phishing Emails
These emails look legitimate. They mimic your bank, Amazon, Netflix, sometimes even your coworkers and senior management. They will usually copy signatures, company logos and use email display names in order to try to look real and hope you let your guard down. Often they ask you to click a link to verify your account, fix a problem, or process a payment, but those links lead to fake websites that will steal your information and your money!
Watch out for: Odd sender addresses, typos, and a sense of urgency. Always verify your senders before clicking on any links or taking any actions.
Smishing & Vishing
Phishing is not just for email anymore. Now it is hitting your phone too:
- Smishing = scam texts – “Your package is delayed!”
- Vishing = scam calls – “You owe the IRS money!”
Best move: Do not reply, do not click, and do not call back. Block and delete.
Fake Shopping Sites
That amazing deal on designer shoes or the 50% discount on an iPhone. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers set up convincing shopping sites to take your money and then vanish.
Red flags: No contact info, weird payment methods, or no customer reviews. Look out for fake Websites/URLs too. Just like phishing, attackers can make their site look like a legitimate online store.
Social Media Impersonators
Scammers pretend to be your friend, coworker, or relative online. Once they gain your trust, they could ask for money or gift cards, but all they need to access your personal info is for you to click “Accept” or “Add Friend”.
Heads up: If something feels “off”, it probably is. An online profile claiming to be your friend/relative that has no mutual friends on social media is likely a scammer. Reach out through another channel to confirm their identity before accepting any friend requests.
Bottom Line
Scammers are getting smarter, but so can you! Be skeptical, slow down, and double-check before clicking anything or giving out information. A little caution goes a long way!
Our ActioNet IT Team is a constant advocate with awareness training to help our employees and customers recognize these threats, take the proper actions and report suspected scammer activity. A compromise at home could easily become a compromise in the office. Stay vigilant and stay safe!