Types of Cyber Threats

Phone-Based and Text Message Scams

Cybercriminals often exploit communication channels such as phone calls and text messages to deceive and steal personal information. Common tactics include:

• Number Spoofing: This occurs when scammers manipulate the caller ID to impersonate trusted organizations, such as local businesses or government agencies. This technique misleads individuals into answering the call, where they are then tricked into revealing sensitive data.
• Identity Spoofing & Deceptive Tactics: Fraudsters may pretend to be law enforcement or financial institutions, pressuring victims to take immediate action, such as transferring funds or revealing banking details to avoid a fabricated crisis.
• SMShing (SMS Phishing): Cybercriminals send SMS messages with links leading to malicious websites that can steal personal data or install malware on mobile devices. These attacks often disguise themselves as true good to be true legitimate offers, such as COVID-19 updates, shopping deals, or health-related information.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe:

• Never respond to unsolicited requests for personal or financial information via text or phone call.
• Always verify the identity of the caller by contacting the organization directly using verified contact information.
• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited SMS messages or emails and delete such messages.
• Report suspicious messages to your mobile carrier.

Online Attacks and Malicious Websites

With the rise in digital activity and online transactions, cybercriminals have registered many fraudulent websites designed to deceive users and steal sensitive information. These sites are often designed to steal your personal information or deliver malware to your device.

• Malware: These harmful programs can secretly infect your devices, steal sensitive information, or even lock you out of your own files. Types of malware include viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, and ransomware.
• Phishing and Fake Websites: Cyber attackers create deceptive websites or emails that mimic legitimate entities (such as banks or government agencies) to trick users into disclosing personal or financial details.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Be cautious when browsing websites related to current trends or popular topics, especially if they ask for personal information.
• Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security on banking or financial sites.
• Avoid downloading software or opening links from unknown sources.

Frauds on Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms are rife with scams that can compromise your privacy and finances. Some of the most common scams include:

• Fake Lottery Wins and Gift Card Fraud: Fraudsters promise fake prizes or gift cards to lure victims into providing sensitive information or money.
• Romance Scams (Fake Relationships): Scammers create fake identities to manipulate individuals into building a false emotional connection, often with the intent to exploit the victim financially.
• Account Deactivation Alerts: Be cautious of urgent requests demanding immediate action. There is no need to share your account details in response to such messages.
• Sextortion: Attackers threaten to release compromising personal information or images unless a ransom is paid.

How to Stay Safe on Social Media:

• Never share personal or banking information on social media platforms.
• Be skeptical of people who rush to form relationships online or ask for money.
• Always verify the legitimacy of offers or claims before acting on them.

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