Internet security scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. If you are ever unsure about the identity or legitimacy of someone you are working with—whether in person or remotely—do not grant them access to your devices or systems. Instead, rely on trusted contacts or professionals to assist with your technology to avoid unnecessary risk.

Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are among the most common online and offline threats. In these scams, criminals impersonate legitimate entities to obtain personal or financial information. They often appear convincing, making them particularly alarming.

To protect yourself:

• Understand how the companies and government agencies you interact with communicate.
  • For example, the IRS will never call you; official correspondence comes via mail with instructions to respond.
• Be wary of aggressive or threatening communications—these are usually scams.
• Recognize that scammers often gather personal information to appear legitimate.
• Use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and update passwords every 90 days.
• Remember: if an offer seems too good to be true—or too alarming—it probably is a scam.

Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams can deceive even experienced users. These typically involve pop-ups or messages claiming your computer has a security issue and urging you to call a “professional.” Scammers often pose as well-known companies, such as Microsoft, and their messages may appear genuine.

To stay safe:

• Never install software you did not intend to use.
• Do not call phone numbers that appear in unexpected pop-ups.
• Instead, restart your device, run trusted antivirus and anti-malware software, and contact someone you know for help.
• Only allow remote access to your computer if you initiated the request with a trusted professional.

General Security Practices

Keeping your devices secure is essential:

• Use strong passwords and two-step verification.
• Enable all available security measures on your devices.
• Secure your Wi-Fi network.
• If using public Wi-Fi frequently, consider a VPN to protect your data.

By staying vigilant and adopting these best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams and protect your personal and business information.