In the digital age, where our lives are intertwined with technology, scammers and hackers are lurking in the shadows, always looking for an opportunity to penetrate our defenses. They plot with a superficial sense of legitimacy and urgency to prey on unsuspecting people. It’s a battle of wits where staying one step ahead is the key to safety.
Let’s look at a real-life scenario that highlights the importance of vigilance.
“Two days ago, I received an email from a local store thanking me for shopping. Unfortunately, when I opened the email, it was a bill.” antivirus software It cost $399.98. I immediately called the number provided, but used a landline. I only use my iPhone. I do not own a computer of any kind. Calling twice didn’t solve anything except worrying. When I called my credit card company, [advised canceling] my credit card. Such accusations were not in their intention.how [did a hacker] Get your email address.What should I have? [done?] I’m interested in protecting my iPhone. Please give me advice. ” Judith, Signal Mountain, Tennessee
Judith, I’m sorry you had to go through the horrible experience of opening what looked like a legitimate email. Unfortunately, you are not the only one who has fallen victim to this type of activity, known as phishing.
Hackers and scammers alike pose as legitimate companies or people with urgent offers to get you to open dangerous documents or links that could compromise your security. Since our digital data is easily available online, this is probably how they got your email address. Additionally, the hacker may have obtained your email address by: Phishing attack, data violation or collection by email. We’re glad you didn’t see any charges on your credit card account, but here are some steps you can take to protect your iPhone. (Android users please follow these tips.)
A man performing biometric authentication using his thumb (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
7 steps to outwit digital intruders
1. Make sure your iPhone is secure. passcode If biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID) is enabled: Because biometric information is unique to you, it adds a second layer of security before anyone can access your phone.
2. Change your Apple ID and email account password. Your Apple ID is important for protecting your information and accessing your iPhone. If you open a phishing email, your email account may have been compromised. Change your email and Apple ID passwords to unique, complex alphanumeric passwords.
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3. Enable two-factor authentication for accounts affected by phishing scams. This includes both your Apple ID and email address. If you have this extra layer of security enabled, hackers and scammers would have to send codes to other devices and accounts to gain access, even if you have a password. When you step up, two-factor authenticationif possible, choose a device other than your iPhone to ensure access even if your phone is compromised.
Illustration of smartphone email (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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4. Check your email settings. Check if you have rules set up to forward emails. If you have any rules set up, remove them to prevent messages from being forwarded to other people’s addresses.
5. Add SIM swapping protection to your phone. SIM exchange scam It’s when someone gains control of your mobile phone number by moving it to a new SIM card. If you want to add SIM swapping protection to your phone, check with your provider to see if they can add this feature.
Warning of cyber attack by signing in on iPhone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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6. Use antivirus software. The best way to protect yourself from clicking on malicious links that install malware that can access your personal information is to install antivirus protection on all your devices. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2024 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
7. Protect against identity theft. Although getting an identity theft service may seem like overkill, many identity theft protection services actually offer dark web monitoring services. They continuously monitor the dark web to see if sensitive personal information, such as email addresses or social security numbers, has been compromised or put up for sale on the dark web. Receiving these alerts immediately gives you the opportunity to act faster and take the other steps listed above. If you have already provided information to a potential scammer, you should: Follow these steps to check if your personal information has been stolen.
One of the best things about using identity theft protection is that it may include identity theft insurance. Up to $1 million to cover losses and legal costs And our excellent fraud resolution team US-based case manager helps you recover your losses. Check out our tips and recommendations on how to protect yourself from identity theft..
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Cart important points
Despite our best efforts and intentions, we’ve all fallen victim to, or been fooled by, a phishing scam at some point. Instead of letting the inevitable scare your digital girlfriend life, take the precautions listed above to stay one step ahead of scammers even if they fail.
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