Every single day, it seems as if there is some new tech product that allows you to get on to the internet and log into your favorite social website. Whether it is a new tablet, smart phone or laptop, connecting on Google+, Facebook or LinkedIn is just a click away.
Scammers also know how simple it is and hope that you click right into one of their many traps. By using your personal data, they pose as your friends in fraudulent emails, waiting for you to let down your guard. Watch out for these 'personalized' scam messages and follow these steps to avoid becoming a victim:
- Don't accept friend requests from people you don't know. Scammers can easily set up fake accounts and send out friend requests.
Accepting requests from strangers gives them access to your personal information as well as your friends. - Be on the lookout for emails that appear to be from a friend or family member and address you by name. These emails usually just include a link to a spammers website. DO NOT CLICK ON THIS LINK! It usually ends up downloading malware to your computer or taking you to a malicious website where your personal information will be requested and stolen.
- Report fake profiles and other suspicious activity to the social media host.
- When using Facebook at public Wi-Fi hotspots such as coffee shops or libraries, text "otp" to 32665 to receive a one-time password to your account.
- Review your devices security settings and make sure that sharing of your web or data is turned off.
- If you do accidentally click a strange link in an email, close it immediately and run a virus scan on your computer.
These are just a few tips that can save you a lot of heartache when dealing with scammers who are always looking to steal your private information. Stay safe and enjoy the web.
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