Phishing scams and identity theft reports are all too common in today’s world. In fact, it seems that every day we are inundated with story after story of someone falling victim to one of these scams. Sometimes it’s even people we know. Cybercrime is constantly on the mind of most consumers and it’s important that we continue to educate on the risks associated with today’s technology-infused world and mitigate potential issues. Knowledge is the number one weapon in fighting against cyber-crime.

What are phishing scams and identity theft?

Phishing scams are a fraudulent practice of sending emails to individuals trying to convince them to reveal personal information, such as passwords, credit card information, banking accounts numbers and other personal data. To take that a step further, identity theft is the acquisition of this information, usually for financial gain. This information can be used to open bank accounts and new credit cards, or even sell the information to third parties to use it for illicit and illegal purposes.

How can I recognize a possible scam?

Cyber criminals will try to get information from you by sending you a link via an email or a text that looks like it is from a legitimate source. Once you click on this link, you have now provided them access to your information on your phone or your computer. They will likely provide you a number to call so you

can speak with someone directly. Once they get you on the phone, cyber criminals will try to convince you that your information, your money, and your investments are not safe. Through building rapport with you and discussing how they are going to protect you; they will attempt to gather personal information. In most cases, they will also tell you that you cannot tell anyone about what is happening.

How can I protect myself?

There are certain steps individuals can take to prevent taking any unnecessary risks in their day or day technological interactions. Below are a few considerations to help protect yourself from falling victim to a cyber-crime.

  Create a unique and complex password for each account and do not share those passwords with anyone. A legitimate company will never ask you to provide them your personal password to access your account.

  Never give out personal information on a call you did not initiate. If you are provided a number to call, look up that company separately and verify the number you received is a listed number for that company.

 Check statements for your financial accounts, credit cards etc. and report any suspicious activities.

 Do not click on any links, open any attachments or respond to emails from unfamiliar or untrusted sources.

What steps should I take if I think I was a victim?

  • Change passwords to your
  • Contact banks, credit card companies, investment companies, the social security office etc., to add a security protection to your account. In some cases, cancelling or closing accounts and opening new ones may be
  • File a police
  • Contact at least one credit bureau to report the identity theft.
  • File a report with the Federal Trade The FTC also has guidance on recovery plans at www.identitytheft.gov.

If you believe that you or someone you know has been a victim of a cyber-crime, please reach out to our office. We will help you navigate what steps to take to protect your information and report the crime to authorities.

If you have any questions or concerns or would like to discuss potential cyber security measures you should take, please contact Amanda Ross, Compliance Manager at (920) 233-4650.