Category: Internet Security

Credit cards are generally a safe way to shop for goods and services online. This is because credit card companies offer fraud protection should your card number and related details fall into the hands of a cybercriminal.  However, this does not mean you should necessarily save your credit card details on an ecommerce site you regular buy items from.

The easy answer is no, you should not save your credit card online if you want zero risk.

If you do not save your credit card info on a website your number, expiry dates, information related to the card will be removed. So, if any of the companies you shop with have a data breach, cybercriminals will not see any record your card.

However, cybercriminals can also access your credit card details if your computer or phone is infected with malware.  This is because the credit card details are saved within your browser settings.  Therefore, a data breach of a company does not even need to occur!

Should You Save Your Credit Card Info?

Each consumer needs to decide the level of convenience they desire when shopping online and weigh the pros and cons. The only reason to save your card details is convenience. It makes for a quick checkout every time.

If you want zero risk, you should not save your credit card details when buying something online. This way the online account with the company does not contain the credit card number and the card information will not be saved on your computer.

You should never save any details of your credit card online, such as in notepad or a Word Document.  Do not write it down on a paper and put it in a file either. Only reference your card details from the card itself.

Ways Cybercriminals Access Credit Cards

There are a variety of ways credit cards are compromised. The bottom line is scams gather information about you from multiple sources. If they gain enough information, they can steal your identity.

• Physical credit cards are stolen or lost.  Report your card as stolen or lost to your credit card company immediately. When discarding old card, cut them into little bits. Do not throw uncut cards into the garbage where thieve can find them in the garbage.

• Card skimmers. A scammer gets access to you card for a brief moment and scans is on a skimmer. Or skimmers are added to shopping scanners or banks machines. Shimmers are new tech that steal your chip information.

• Card Shimmers:  This is new technology that steals your credit card chip information has it’s skimmed.

• Clicking on malicious links in phishing emails or texts, which infects your devices with malware to access all of your personal information.

• Using public Wi-Fi networks that are not secure.

• Data breaches. Even if you keep your computer secure, a company data breach will reveal your personal details to cybercriminals.

• Formjacking.  Legitimate websites are hacked and gather information as user enter their info on a form.

Only partial information about you will compromise your online accounts and the information each account holds about you.

Compromised data can also help scammers target your more specifically into clicking a link or answering personal questions on a scam phone call.

Reason’s to Not Save Your Credit Card Information

To recap, though saving your card information makes it easier to make purchases, it also opens up the possibility of potential fraud.

The more websites your card information is stored on, the more companies your personal information is tied to.

When card information is saved online, it can be used by anyone who has access to your device. If your device is hacked, or infected with certain malware, cybercriminals can gain that level of access.

Entering the CVV when making a purchase does add an extra layer of protection but does not eliminate all risk entirely if scammers have other means to use your credit card.

For those who want to be extra cautious, if you shop without an account and use guest checkout, no information whatsoever is saved by the e-commerce website.  However, you will have to give up additional incentives gained by having an account, such as loyalty points.

Best practices even if you do have an account is to not save the credit card information.

Read our three part series on how to protect yourself from scams.
Begin with Common Scams: Part 1 

Children are easy targets for cybercriminals and similar people. Children can often be often reckless about their actions. They can click unknown links out of curiosity, only to be taken to an unknown website, or reply to a new message from an unknown addresser. Using a webcam by children also needs special attention from their parents’ side.

Otherwise, children can be unpleasantly surprised or even traumatized—the question of why cybercriminals do this is a conversation for another day. The main point of this content is to explore how you can secure the webcam your children use and prevent any possible negative consequences.

Security First for Webcam Protection

This is the foremost point that has to be ensured. If your device lacks effective protective software, it becomes automatically vulnerable to webcam hackers. This software is a moderate investment ensuring the effective operation of your PC, preventing malware, viruses, or unknowingly given access to accounts and computer data in general. Install that software and explain to your children that it’s for their protection.  Parental controls exist to block harmful content, but it won’t stop a data breach or cyber attacks.  Antivirus and anti-malware programs are needed.

Make Sure WiFi Is Secured

Sometimes the easiest way to secure your webcam is to protect the entire WiFi network you are using. It is necessary to apply secured and complex passwords for your home network.  Your children should also be aware of all risks related to accessing public WiFi networks. If they join such networks, it is easy for computers to become infected by malicious software or become a target for scammers.

To protect children from this risk, you can install VPN software. It secures your devices by changing their real IP addresses. As an outcome, devices remain untraceable.

Secure Smart Technology in the Home

Camfecting is occurring now more than ever. It occurs when a cybercriminal takes remote control of a camera.  It’s very common for smart devices such as televisions, phones, baby monitors, and doorbells to have micro-sized digital cameras built in them.

Cybercriminals can use a special type of malware called Remote Access Trojans, or RATs, to gain access to cameras, computer files, and the ability to record keystrokes performed by the user.

One method of infiltrating a camera is done by exploiting known vulnerabilities within the device’s software. Passwords need to be strong for your WiFi and each smart device.  Appliances should not be on the same network as your personal computers. Smart TV’s have their own set of privacy settings to be mindful off.

Devices need to be updated regularly so that patches can remediate the vulnerabilities.

Best Practices for WebCam Use

Suspicious Links Avoided

This is a simple rule all children must follow. Instruct them to not click links or download anything from unknown sources. This rule prevents getting malware and spyware that infect the computer and enable getting access to a webcam. If something appears to be suspicious, avoiding that is the best solution. If you child needs a download, they should consult with you first.

Teach children how phishing emails or texts from scammers contain links that will give cybercriminals access to your child’s device, as well as others connected on the same network.  These emails may also come some friends they know because their friend’s computer may be infected. Check with all senders directly before clicking a link in a message from them.

“Stranger –Danger”

This rule is related to communications with unknown people. Children should not start this communication and share with them any kind of personal information. It is necessary to explain to children that even if these persons are pleasant to deal with, it is unlikely that somebody will ask to share personal information about a person during the first conversations.

What information is usually requested by strangers? It includes the details about the child’s history, date of birth, siblings, information related to parents, etc. Emphasize that your children should not deal with strangers online and provide those any authorizations.

Explain How Web Cams Work

Previous tips are effective, but they only decrease the risks related to hackers attempting to access webcams. You should explain that to your children and also clarify how this device can be compromised.  But there is one simple way to they can remain protect themselves.  An important rule for everyone, including adults, is to cover the camera eye of any webcam when not using it.  It is an easy-to-arrange technique that only requires a sticker or a special case you can purchase to be placed on the camera eye.

Create Rules for the Camera’s Location

The easiest strategy on how to secure children from possible negative consequences while using a webcam is determining strict rules for using it. The most workable rule, in this case, is avoiding using a webcam in a bedroom or bathroom. The situation is simple here. A child may easily forget to switch off the camera. This mistake may have negative consequences, especially if the webcam is regularly used in a private room of a home.

Secure Devices for Your Work from Children

Don’t allow your child to use webcams that are connected to your work.  This opens them up to accidentally connecting with fellow employees with the potential to share private information to collogues.   The best strategy here is to secure your devices with effective passwords and separate those devices from personal use by other family members.

Secure Data and Cloud Storage

If video or video chats are saved, ensure they are stored securely. You can also look into encryption methods if you like.  But most certainly, ensure all data on any computer is safe from outside access. Besides strong passwords for accounts and cloud storage, applying two-factor authentication is vital keep keeping private files from being accessed.

Webcam Red Flags to Pay Attention to

Indicator Light: Most webcams have an indicator light that turns on when the camera is active. If you notice this light is on unexpectedly, it could indicate that your webcam is in use.

Unexplained Activity: If your computer starts behaving strangely, such as windows opening or closing without your input, it could be a sign that someone is remotely accessing your system, including your webcam.

Unexpected Software: If you see new software installed on your computer that you didn’t install yourself, it might be malware or spyware designed to access your webcam.

Firewall Alerts: If your firewall software alerts you to unauthorized attempts to access your webcam, take it as a red flag.

Antivirus Warnings: Some antivirus software may detect suspicious activity related to webcam access and notify you about it. Take these warnings seriously and investigate further.

Check for Remote Access Tools: Regularly check your computer for remote access tools or software that could be used to access your webcam without your knowledge.

Final Words

Cyber threats are always lurking for children and adults alike. Webcams are often forgotten about when we think about the harm can happen on because of their use.  These tips on how to secure a webcam can spare your children from the negative consequences that may occur when interacting with others online.

It is always better to explain to your kids that the internet is not simply place full of joyful and interesting stuff. It’s also where cybercriminals and predators exist, and webcams are just one of the means children can be exploited.  Vigilance is required to set and follow these personal safety and computer security rules for webcams. As a result, the internet can be a much safer place for fun with friends, as well as enjoy the full benefits for learning.

Author’s Bio

Aston Rhodes is an experienced content creator and marketing expert for https://jatapp.com/. Aston has been helping authors improve their blogs for over 5 years and turn this hobby into a business. She does research and discussion on tech-related topics. She enjoys sharing her experiences with a like-minded audience and writes about software development, digital marketing, business, career, and more.

In Part 1 and Part 2 of our series on scams we have explored many of the common scams that cybercriminals use to steal our data. It may result in an instant financial loss or later down the road when you least expect it.  Some scammers simply sell your information.  Being scammed once may not effect you greatly, especially if you have secured your accounts.

However, the more information that is gathered about you can eventually result in identity theft.  At the very least, more scams will come your way. So, in our final article in this series (part 3) we look at additional scams that affect individuals and businesses alike. It’s a reminder for all of us to be internet savvy and spread the word about false information and scams.

Creative Scams Compromising Security

CEO Fraud

CEO fraud, also known as Business Email Compromise (BEC), has evolved from emails to text messages, tricking employees into divulging sensitive information, transferring funds, or interacting with malware.

Employees are advised not to respond to suspicious text messages that appear to be a CEO fraud attempt. Instead, it’s best to inform IT, and the impersonated executive of the incident, and then delete the message.

Cybercriminals can easily obtain personal and company information for their scams through social media networks.  Social media networks, especially those focused on business and employment, provide cybercriminals with a wealth of personal and company information.

Making social media profiles private, and being cautious about connection requests, can help protect against CEO fraud.  This reduces the amount of personal information that is publicly available and can be used by cybercriminals to carry out their scams.

BEC Scams are no longer limited to message from someone impersonating a CEO, emails may also come from fake suppliers and business associates.

Job Scams

A job scams has a very basic promise.  A scammer poses as a company that wants to hire you. They prey on the emotion that you are excited to get the job. The pay is good, and you can start right away. It may be a full time, part time, or temporary job.

Cybercriminals use the lure of work to trick job seekers into providing personal Information.

A resume plus a photo ID is more or less a complete picture of a person’s personal identity, which is what makes these types of scams so dangerous.

In order to make this scam work, cybercriminals are counting on our level of comfort in providing personal information to potential employers, as well as our motivation to earn extra cash.

These two components allow this scam to operate, so it is important to stay ware.

The Fee-Based Scam:   When a cybercriminal posing as a legitimate employer will insist that a job seeker pay a small fee for “start up” materials.​ Or they are asked to pay twenty or thirty dollars for things like training or a background check, only to have the prospective employer vanish into thin air.

For a remote salesperson job opportunity, job seekers may be asked to pay for access to a list of sales leads could never lead to a scam.

Even if a job is only temporary or seasonal, it’s important to take the time to confirm that the company is legitimate before forwarding personal information to the potential employer.

The Use of Images in Phishing Email

When most of us think about phishing email, we consider the subject line and the message that as been cleverly written to fool us. But what if there isn’t much text at all in an email.  Instead, there is an image.

Your standard phishing email doesn’t usually come with an image. Which is why a gift card phishing email that includes images looks so legitimate.

Visual marketing is just as successful in the professional world as it is in the cybercrime industry.  Visual marketing is defined as a strategy used to depict concepts that would otherwise be hard to explain through text.

To add to the confusion, 67% of scammers opt to leave the subject line empty in malicious emails. Empty subject lines are quick and easy for cybercriminals to send out and have an engaging air of mystery for the user.

Phishing emails that have blank bodies and blank subject lines are known as “blankets.” These type of phishing emails are known as “probes,” and are sent as a quick way for cybercriminals to identify active email accounts.

Scams Related to Selling Items Online

The Fake Payment, or Bogus Fund request:  It’s when a scammer poses as a buyer and asks to pay via a mobile payment app, but then sends a fake payment notification. They hope you will send the item before you notice the payment never occurred. Or the scammer will insist that they actually paid you twice and ask for a refund for one of the fake payments they sent you.

Fake Check Overpayment Scams:  A scammer will send you a check for more than the sale of your items.  They will ask you to refund back the difference.  The check you deposited won’t bounce for a few days, long after you have given the scammer your hard-earned money. They will also have the item that you were selling if you have already sent it to them.

Verification Code Scams

If you have been wise and set up multi-factor authentication for your accounts, there is a way scammers can trick you into sending them that code. It’s called the verification code scam.  They will call you pretending to be someone official associated with your account. They will say there is an issue and for it to be solved, you first need to verify yourself by sending them an authentication code.

You agree.

From there, the scammer will try to login into your account. This will trigger the code to be sent to you.  You think the person on the phone sent you the code, but it; s actually your legitimate account that the scammer is truing to clog into.

This scam can also be carried out when selling items online.  The scammer will claim to be nervous about online scams and send you a verification code. They will then ask you to send them the code, which, if you do, will allow them to open a new account linked to your phone number.

One-Time Password Scams

A one-time password (OPT) is a form of multi-factor authentication that provides a unique code each time a user tries to log into an account. These newly created passwords are sent to a user’s mobile device or email. They are triggered after a user tries to login to an account, providing an extra layer of security.

Scammers are now trying to dupe people into giving them this password. The scammer may have learned your phone number and email from various sources. They will try to log in to your account, which will generate a password being sent to you. The scammer will then call pretending to be the company of your account. They’ll say they need your password to verify you as the account holder. This is a scam. You should never share your one-time password with an unsolicited caller.

These one-time passwords are automatically sent to you as a convenience. No legitimate organization will call unsolicited, asking for your OPT.

Signs of a potential scam is if your email inbox is flooded with one-time passwords. You should consider resetting your main password as a precaution.

Caller ID Spoofing

We have covered phone scams in other parts of our scam series, but it’s worth noting that caller ID spoofing takes things to a new level as scammers try to get people to let their guard down when answering calls.

With online communication services like Google Voice, cybercriminals can change their area code or even their full phone number to match that of the person they are calling.  If you identify a call as spoofed, you should not answer it. When a scam call is answered, it will often lead to more calls in the future.

If you do answer an unknown call that appears to be from the government, remember; employees do not call unsolicited, especially to ask for money or account information. If someone calls claiming to be a friend or family member in urgent need of money, it is recommended in this training that you proceed with caution.  Consider confirming with the person through another method of contact before taking action.

Public Wi-Fi Scams

The main security issue with public Wi-Fi is that it is public.  Their public nature becomes a tempting environment for cybercriminals, as a password given out by a barista or written on a chalkboard is the same as no password at all.

It’s important to always verify the network you are using.  Cybercriminals can set up fake or spoofed networks disguised as a public hotspot.  The spoofed network may even have a name similar to the network in question and allow you to browse normally.  However, it may send you to a fake website and ask for login or payment information.  Or it may simply spy on you.

Always verify the network you are using with a staff member and look for encryption.  Encryption, such as SSL, helps to make network connections more secure. Website should begin with https. A padlock icon also indicated that the network is secure.

It’s good practice to turning off the Wi-Fi on your mobile device when you are not actively using it. This will prevent it from automatically connecting to public networks in places you’ve visited before.

How Scams Increase Cyber Attacks

While cyber criminals are looking for a quick easy profit by scamming money directly from you, there are many other reasons why your personal information alone is of great value to them.

An email address and a password can be worth as much as $1000 on the dark web.  The information gathered in scams increase the effectiveness of cyber attacks against people and companies,

Here are a few ways just one piece of information can compromise your data many times over.

Credential Stuffing Attacks

In this this type of cyberattack a cybercriminal uses previously exposed account information across other unrelated services to try and gain access to multiple accounts.

Credential stuffing can be highly effective, as many of us who don’t use a password manager rely on the same, or similar, passwords.

Preventing a credential stuffing attack is focused primarily on not re-using passwords. Utilizing truly unique passwords across all accounts is the way to go, which is where a password manager tool can be so effective.

Credential stuffing is similar to a brute force attack, but with credential stuffing, the cybercriminal is using a password they already know.

This creates a much more targeted and successful attack if their target reuses the same, or similar, password.

Brute Force Attacks

The tools associated with a brute force attack are relatively easy for a cybercriminal to get their hands on, which makes them common.  Brute force attacks are a trial-and-error method of trying to decode a password or encryption key to access a device or account, which can also lead to a hijacking attack.

Using automated tools, cybercriminals can systematically test thousands to millions of password combinations every second. Even adding a few extra characters can help extend the overall decoding time significantly and may be enough to deter an ongoing brute force attempt.

Cybercriminals have been using artificial intelligence technology to train their tools to target passwords more efficiently by feeding it previously exposed passwords as a reference point.  By using these previously exposed passwords, mixed with our tendencies to use common passwords, cybercriminals can improve their success rate in their attacks.

Ex-Scammer and Conman Frank Abagnale reveals the red flags that every scam has. They made a movie about him starring Tom Hanks and Leonardo Dicaprio called ‘Catch Me If You Can’.

Read Part 1 and Part 2 of our scam series to learn specifics about how to:

• Be alert about common scams.
• Create unique passwords for each of your accounts.
• Use a password manager so you don’t have to remember your complicated passwords.
• Set up multi-factor authentication.
• Ensure your Wi-Fi connection is secure.
• Enable automotive updates for all devices and software installed on those devices.
• Learn the SLAM method to prevent clicking malicious links.
• Don’t respond to unknown texts.
• Don’t call back anonymous phone numbers.

Part 1:  Common scams to be aware of and prepare for.
Part 2: Common scams and common sense prevention.

The digital revolution has enlightened us with a wealth of opportunities, but it has also opened the floodgates to a myriad of threats that we need to be acutely aware of. For families particularly, making our way through an online world can be akin to a safari through an electronic jungle. It’s fraught with hidden dangers that could strike when you least expect it.

But before you panic, there are steps you can take to protect you, your family, your home, and the multiple devices connected to the internet.  We’ll dissect and discuss the digital threats that families face, arming you with the knowledge to safeguard your loved ones.

Unraveling the Enigma of Cybersecurity for Families

When we hear the term “cybersecurity,” we often think of high-level breaches at large corporations or the data breaches that make the headlines. However, the digital domain is not confined to these big spectacles of hacking or espionage. When facing data loss, a common question that arises is: Can you recover lost data? – and the answer often depends on factors such as the cause of the data loss, the extent of damage, available backup solutions, and the effectiveness of data recovery tools or services. In the daily lives of families, cybersecurity takes on a more personal form, where the threats are numerous and, in some cases, increasingly sophisticated.

For families, cybersecurity should be approached with a layered defense strategy. The core is your home network, which must be well-protected by a robust firewall and encryption. The next layer concerns the devices you and your family members use. These should have quality antivirus software, regular updates, and secure passcodes. Beyond these is the outer layer, which includes the human element – education and awareness are key to reducing the risk.

Starting with the Fortress: Your Home Network

The home network is where all online activity begins and ends. It’s the digital living room where the entire family gathers, but if it’s not secure, it’s like leaving the front door open for cybercriminals. Ensuring the security of your Wi-Fi network is the first step in safeguarding your family’s online presence. Start by changing the default network name and password to a unique, strong passphrase. Use the latest Wi-Fi encryption and consider hiding your network’s SSID to make it less visible to potential intruders.

Another vital aspect of securing your home network is ensuring the physical security of your network equipment. Place your router in a central location but away from windows to limit the reach of your signal outside the house. If possible, use security locks or place it out of reach of young children to prevent accidental tampering.

Shielding the Devices in Your Digital Home

Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart devices are the gateways to the digital world for many families. Each one represents a potential point of entry for a cyber threat. Ensuring these devices are secured is essential. This means not only enabling and updating device-specific security features such as firewalls but also being mindful of the apps and programs you install. Stick to trusted sources like Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store, keep an eye on permissions app requests, and regularly review the list of installed software for anything that seems suspicious.

Parental controls are also a powerful tool for protecting young users from inappropriate content and online interactions. Many devices and systems offer built-in controls, or there are numerous third-party solutions that cater to different needs and levels of oversight.

The Human Element and Online Education

Even the most secure digital fortress is only as strong as the individual members that defend it. No device or network can protect against every threat, so educating your family about online safety is crucial. Start with the basics of creating strong, unique passwords for each online account, avoiding suspicious links and downloads, and being cautious about what information they share online, especially in public forums or on social media platforms.

For younger children, start with foundational lessons about not sharing personal information, not talking to strangers, and always seeking a parent’s help or advice when unsure about something online. It’s also important to encourage an open dialogue about online experiences so that family members feel comfortable sharing if they encounter something that makes them uncomfortable or seems dangerous.

Weaving the Web of Family Privacy in a Public Domain

Privacy is another significant concern in the online space, and the stakes are never higher than when it involves our families. From personal data misuse to unsolicited access to children’s lives, the smallest breach can have devastating consequences. In the era of oversharing and always-on connectivity, maintaining a semblance of privacy can be a battle. However, there are concrete steps families can take to bolster their privacy defenses.

The Delicate Tapestry of Personal Data

Our personal information is crucial in the digital age, driving internet algorithms and possibly leading to security threats. It’s vital for families to discuss online data sharing and understand how to protect sensitive information. Evaluating the necessity of sharing personal details, like home addresses in gaming apps or location tags in photos, is key to maintaining privacy and security online.

The Dual-Edged Sword of Parental Controls

Digital services now offer robust parental controls, like Google Family Link and Apple’s Screen Time, allowing parents to manage their children’s online activities, including setting time limits and approving app downloads. However, the effectiveness of these controls depends on active parental involvement. It’s important for parents to not only set these controls but also to engage with their children about their online behaviors and the reasons behind the rules, ensuring kids’ online safety.

The Eternal Vigilance of Staying Informed and Updated

In the digital jungle, the map is constantly changing. New threats emerge regularly, and old ones evolve. Staying informed and being proactive with updates can often mean the difference between safety and compromise. This is true for both devices and knowledge.

The Ongoing Battle Against Technological Obsolescence

Older devices pose efficiency and security risks due to manufacturers ceasing updates, leaving them open to exploits. Families should monitor device lifecycles for timely upgrades or replacements. If buying new devices isn’t an option, keeping them updated, preferably through automatic updates, is crucial for security. These updates can offer protection against the latest threats.

Knowledge Is Power: Staying Informed About the Latest Threats

Keeping the family safe online requires a commitment to ongoing education. The world of cybersecurity is vast and complicated, with new threats and best practices emerging regularly. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help families stay informed.

Follow cybersecurity blogs and news outlets that often report on new developments. Educate yourself on cloud security and encourage family members to share articles or insights about online safety with each other. Empower kids by teaching them about online safety and discussing real-life examples of cybersecurity risks.

The digital world is an inexorable part of our lives, and for families, understanding and addressing the associated risks are non-negotiable. By treating the online environment with the same prudence, we do our physical one, we can forge a safer, more secure experience for our families. Encourage open discussions, remain vigilant, and foster a culture of digital responsibility, and the internet can remain the wondrous tool of education, connection, and fun that it is meant to be.