Category: Internet Security

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.

Welcome to Part 2 in our series of scams to be aware of. With a bit of knowledge and some common sense,  you can be equipped to protect your identity, your devices, and your bank account.  I’m sure scammers sleep, but their schemes and systems set in motion that attempt to infiltrate cyber security forces, do not.

Some scams are carried out in person with a live scammer on the phone. Or, they may be on the other side of a text.  However, many scams are spam emails, spam texts, robocalls, fake websites, malware and virus attachments.  Some even involve mail fraud.   The list of of old and new scams seem endless but before you panic, take a deep breath.

There are simple things you can learn that apply common sense to prevent you from being fooled.  So, let’s get into it shall we?

Imposter Scams

Imposter scams, also known as impersonation scams, are scams involving cybercriminals who are pretending to be someone, or something, they are not. The most commonly reported impersonation that scammers will utilize is that of a government official.  Other examples are a scammer posting as someone you work with or trust, such as a bank, technology company, or a relative.

Signs of an imposter scams is a sense of urgency to act now to avoid of being arrested, threats of account deactivation, or additional fees being charged. Threatening language and requesting payment in obscure ways, such as with a gift card, are also common signs of an imposter scam.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also being used to make these scams more authentic by cloning voices or creating deepfake videos.

Wrong Number Text Scams

Receiving unsolicited phone calls from unknown numbers has been common for years.  Recently, text messages from unknown numbers or entities are on the rise. Often, the messages appear to be mistakenly sent. Many people may text back with “wrong number”, but this will only verify your number to scammers. Never respond to these messages or you will begin to receive more of them.

Unsuspecting receivers of these messages who beginning communicated with the scammer will eventually receive a malicious link after trust is gained. Never click any link sent to you in a text unless you verify that you are in fact speaking to someone you know. Confirm with them if they sent you the link.

Scammers may send messages for days or weeks before doing anything suspicious.  When you receive these messages, check for blocking or reporting options on your mobile phone.

Deepfake Scams

These types of scams are also known as synthetic media or an imposter scam. A deepfake is a type of artificial intelligence that uses machine learning algorithms to manipulate images, audio or videos.  You may receive an email from your friend or boss, followed up by a phone call where the scammer has used AI to mimic their voice. Video is often used on social media to give credibility to an offer in an advertisement.

To help spot a video deepfake, experts recommend looking for irregular blinking and eye motion, inconsistent lip synching, flickering around the edges of the subject, and odd-looking teeth.

To help spot an audio deepfake, experts recommend listening for irregular high and low pitches within the audio, lack of background noise, and awkward pauses.

If you received a frantic phone call from a family member in trouble and something seems off, let them know you want to verify that it’s really them calling. Ask them a few questions that a scammer could not possibly know.  Such as, what is the color and year of your car?  Where did we go on vacation last year?  Or, name three of your best friends.

Mail-in Scams

Most people may not think of a scam coming in your mailbox.  We are so used to junk mail that much of it is thrown away.  But just like phishing through an email, scammers send out bulk mail in hopes of catching someone who is not paying close attention. It may be a fake bill stating that you are behind in your mortgage, or a fake utility bill requesting payment on a fake website or by mailing payment directly.

Fraudulent mail may also come as handwritten notes from a scammer pretending to be a friend.  Think of all the ways phishing emails you receive. These can just as easily come in the form of junk male.   A scam known as the “Hard Luck Story” takes the form of a scammer impersonating a friend or stranger needing assistance, but this letter is really coming from a scammer.

Social Media Phishing Attacks

Most of us feel comfortable on social media.  After all, it’s where we connect with friends and family. There is also the potential to make new friends in community groups.  The more relaxed we are in the social media environment, the easiest it is for cybercriminals to scam us.

These scams are dangerous for both an individual and an organization. The takeover of a business or brand’s social media account by cybercriminals can have devastating consequences.  Many social media phishing attacks begin with cybercriminals gathering publicly available information.  They will use this to fool you into clicking a link or forwarding a message to all your friends.

Use the privacy controls on personal and business social media accounts to keep personal information out of public view.  Including your location, full name, and lists of connections.  You can also take from the SLAM Method (used to inspect possible phishing emails) and adapt it to social media.

Social Media Cyber Safety

Fake Customer Service Accounts

Scammers will create fake customer service social media accounts of real companies and respond to help requests with a link to fake login pages where they can steal the user’s credentials or ask for payment for repair services.

Reporting all unusual activity you notice or suspect on social media helps keep the whole community safe.

Account Hijacking

Account hijacking happens when someone gains unauthorized access to a user’s social media account, usually through a weak password. Hijacked accounts are actively used by scammers to impersonate the user, send phishing messages to followers, post harmful content, or steal the user’s personal information.

Malicious links that could infect your device with viruses or malware can also come through social media via messages, comments, and posts by other users. If hacked, your account can be used to distribute scams and malware to your friends.

How to Prevent Account Hacking

Scammers often use information from multiple online profiles, such as answers to common security questions, to gain access to your other accounts.  Disconnecting third-party apps that you no longer use can help keep your social media account secure.

Don’t use the same password for all your social media accounts. Using the same password across multiple platforms means if a hacker uncovers your password to one account, they also gain access to any additional accounts that use the same password.

Learn how my daughter’s Instagram account was hacked because of malicious link:

Teach the SLAM Method reviewed in part 1 to children so they won’t become another victim of a scamming text that preys on emotions.

Visual Spoofing

Visual spoofing is an action performed by a cybercriminal to disguise a website or email.  Domain spoofing can also occur when a website is made to look like a legitimate website. Link in emails can also be cleverly disguised to catch you off guard.  Looking closely at the URL will reveal that there are additional characters in the domain that seem to fit at first glance.

Scammers may also use different characters from other languages or accents over letters in the domain name. Something as simple as using the capital letter O instead of the number 0 can fool people.

Scammers don’t stop there.  If you happen to end up on one of the scam websites, it may be copied from the original website to look real, including the design and products listed.

Be cautious of all links. It’s always better to access any website directly instead of clicking a link.  Look for fake logos, poor website design or spelling errors.  Keep your browser up to date allowing for automatic updates for all software and operating systems on your devices.

Pig Butchering Scam

This sounds like a weird name for a scam.  In pig butchering scams, the scammer first builds trust through a new business relationship or friendship.  It can happen through email or text.  So, just like a farmer fattens up a pig before it’s time to send it to the butcher, the scammer is prepared their victim to eventually give them money.

Typically, they use the lure of guaranteed quick profits from cryptocurrency investments to convince the victim to invest.  If you find yourself in this situation, conversations may go on for weeks or months until your defenses are totally down and you won’t think twice about investing or helping your new friend.

Be cautious of “wrong number” text scams, which may be a ploy to start a friendly conversation and eventually launch the scam.

Formjacking Scams

In a formjacking scam, cybercriminals target a website and insert malicious code to skim sensitive information from the sites form pages.  Form pages can be anything, from a basic contact form to an online shopping cart, or payment form.

The information that scammers are after are passwords, login credentials, and payment information. These can include bank account numbers and credit card data.

Unfortunately, consumers are at the mercy of companies to ensure their forms are not being used to skim information.  There’s no way of knowing is a web form is compromised or not, even for the most tech savvy person.

However, there are ways to mitigate the effects in the event your data is skimmed.

Best Practices for Protection Include:

Monitoring your credit card statements, banks accounts, and credit scores for unauthorized, unfamiliar and suspicious activity.

Use banking apps that alert you through SMS or push notifications in real time about transactions made on your account.

Notify your bank as soon as possible if you noticed fraudulent transactions.

Using multi-factor authentication on all accounts when possible.

These methods won’t stop form jacking but they make it difficult for criminals to siphon funds from a compromised account.

Signing up for identity theft protection that monitors your credit score, will let you know about changes connected to your finances.  For example, it will email you when a new account is opened in your name.  These services also identity theft insurance and provide services to help you clean up the mess made some any cyber breach that causes you financial harm.

Common Sense for Common Scams – Wrap Up

There will never be a shortage of scams to write about.  As technology grows and changes, someone somewhere in the world is thinking about a new year to use it for malicious purposes.  However, we hope you have seen a common theme of how some basic tips, combined with common sense, can help to be prepared. Always take a second look when something strange comes to you in an email, a text, or app.

Learn more about Scams – Part 1 and Creative Scams Part 3

So many scams, too little time to stay ahead of them all. Cyber criminals are not nice people, but they certainly are creative; always thinking of new ways to scam you. Scammers are opportunists working in multiple areas at the same time. Their motivation is money. They will either access your personal information and sell it to others or easily steal your money outright.

You may not know about every scam that’s on the internet or offline in the real world. But there are common ways of how you can be aware of and prepared for all potential scams. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to learn about old scams and new ones that are created.

Common Scams to Be on the Look Out For

In Part 1 of our scam awareness series, we look at common scams and new scams that are ever emerging.  Through this education on scams, you’ll notice a persistent theme of how you can be prepared. Even if a brand-new scheme designed to fool you rears it’s ugly head for the first time, there are consistent things you can do to protect yourself.

Most people become victims of scans through email and texts.  The first defense against malicious messages is to follow the SLAM Method.

SLAM stands for Sender, Links, Attachments, and Message. All of these elements should be scrutinized.  

Sender: Don’t accept message requests from outside of your known circle of friends or connections.  Don’t accept friend requests from anyone you don’t know.

Links:  Do not click on any links in social media posts, profiles or messages unless you can see the full URL and be certain that the site is legitimate.

Attachments: Never download or open attachments from social media posts, profiles or messages.

Message:  Look carefully at the body of any social media message or post that you are interacting with. If it feels off, contains misspellings, off grammar or even uncharacteristic emojis, you might be looking at a phishing attempt.  Be wary of messages that push you to take some urgent action or another.

Remember the SLAM Method throughout our scam educational series.  But we’ll also be looking at scams that also happen via direct communication with scammers.  Let’s begin!

Charity Scams

Types of charity scams include:

Crowd Sourcing Scams:  Don’t take for granted that all is legit. Scrutinize the validity of the crowding funding request.

Post Tragedy Scams:  When a tragedy strikes, scammers will sometimes spoof the website or create a site that closely resembles the site of a legitimate donation site.

Firefighter, Police and Military Scams:  These scammers will often use familiar or local organizations to build trust and take people off guard.   Some will directly target military veterans and their families.

Warning Signs of Charity Scams:

1. Requests for cash, money wire, or gift card donations can be a red flag. Use a credit card instead.
2. Non-tax deductible donations are a red flag that a charity may not be legitimate.
3. Pressure Tactics: Real charities will never use a hard sell or pressure tactics to solicit a donation.
4. Fake information: Charitable donation websites almost always end with .org and domains will always start with https:// not http:// without the “s”.

Beware of fake charities based related to common world issues, such as what happened during the pandemic. Scammers prey on the emotions of people who want to help those in need of disaster relief, such as during war or refugees fleeing their country for safety or a better life.  Charity and disaster fraud often increases during the holiday season.

Cybercriminals will also call people thanking them for a previous donation, a donation which may have not been made. Veteran fraud and disaster fraud are often the premise used for fake charity scams.

Marketplace Scams

There are two categories within marketplace scams.

Non-Payment Scam:   In a non-payment scam, cybercriminals will use a phony screenshot of a completed cash transfer to trick a victim into shipping an item.

Non-Delivery Scams:  Scammers trick victims into paying for goods and services that are never delivered.  They offer prices that are almost too good to be true.

Non-delivery scams advertise popular items and services at deeply discounted prices and ask for payment using gift cards or cash payment through a payment app.

Marketplace scams come in many forms so always be cautious.  These creative types of scams also happen when individuals are selling items online.

Prevention Tips:

1. Know your marketplace:  When shopping online, do so on trusted sources with secure processing and payment policies that protect consumers.
2. Use a credit card:  Credit card companies have systems and policies in place to protect against a fraud.
3. Stay on the platform you are shopping on:  Scammers will try to bait their victims into leaving the marketplace platform for messaging and payment.

Gift Card Scams

It may seem obvious to many that that any legitimate organization would ask to be paid in gift cards.  Still, it’s a common scan that pulls people in. Scammers create a sense of fear and urgency pressure their targets into acting quickly without thinking. Asking to keep the transaction a secret is a warning sign of a gift card scam.

Cyberthieves prefer gift card payments because they offer anonymity.  Unlike other forms of payment, transactions can be anonymous and are difficult to trace or reverse, unlike bank transfers.  Gift cards are also widely available and offer immediate access to funds once the victim buys a gift card at a local store and send the scammer the number and pin to redeem the funds.

What To Do If You Are Targeted

Any gift card payment request is likely a scam and should be ignored. If you receive a phone call, email, or text message requesting a gift card as payment, immediately hang up or delete the message.

Contact the company directly using a known number or email address instead. If you have an account with the organization, log into your account to see if there are any notices, such as an overdue payment.

Display Name Scams

Display name spoofing occurs when the cybercriminal manipulates the sender’s display name or makes the display name look like an email address.  Seeing a legitimate display name deceives you into believing that it’s from a trusted email source.

If a sender looks familiar, but the message makes unusual requests, it is best to contact the person or company directly through another method of contact.

Delivery Scams

Types include:

Pet Delivery Scams: These are fake ads where payment is required upfront.

• Protect yourself asking to see the pet in person before you pay.

Fake Delivery Notifications:  Here, scammers mimic big name online shopping or shipping companies in their delivery scam messages. They claim there is a problem with the delivery of your package, or you need to confirm something has been delivered.

• Be cautious of clicking on links or downloading attachments.  Never enter personal information when requested. Verify the tracking number and status of a delivery through the companies’ official website. 

Non-Delivery Scams:  An example of a non-delivery scam in this training involves making a purchase online, but never receiving the order or confirmation details of the purchase.  Only make purchases on reputable websites.

• When you do make an order, follow up immediately if you don’t receive a confirmation of your order. Check the address on the website and phone number. 

If you are unable to make contact and your credit card was charged by a non-delivery scammer, you should call your credit card company and consider deactivating the card.

Transportation Scams

Scammers will make phone calls or send messages via text or email claiming that your flight has been delayed or cancelled. Messages will likely include links that offer a refund for the flight or an opportunity to rebook for a small fee.  Airlines will never ask for a fee to rebook. Contact your airline directly on their website or call them to enquire about the status of your flight.

Cyberthieves also set up fake websites or send messages offering deals on rental cars as well. Always verify the URL and company phone number before booking. In your unsure, going to directly to the official website is always better than clicking a link.

Learn the dangers of freight scams.  Be on the look out for gifts and rewards being offered by transportation companies. Tread carefully and do your research before jumping on a deal that may be a scam created to steal your information or your money.

Conclusion

Most scams come to us when we have our guard down. They prey on our emotions by using fear filled headlines or threats of potential loss of accounts or hard-earned dollars. It’s not uncommon to receive an email, phone call, or text that is related to something we have already done.

You may be expecting a package that you ordered a few days earlier. You may have booked a flight.  Maybe you happen to be needing of a product or service. That fact that relevant messages come to us are simply a coincidence. When you receive a text or email out of the blue, always ask the question; “Is this real? Or is it a scam?”

Some scams also encourage users to download malicious apps in order to receive a reward or discount. This does not prey on our fear, but entices a natural human desire for personal gain. Be cautious of all app downloads in every situation.

In one second you could infect your devices with malware to give away personal login information. However, it only takes a few seconds more to carefully review the message to verify it’s legit. When in doubt, go to Google and search for the company. Visit their website directly. Or, login to trusted websites directly at the source from a personal bookmark, not though an email link.

If an email or text message lines up with a legitimate notice about a login verification or purchase you just made, it’s still a good idea to only click the link after you’ve double checked that it’s not going you to a different site.  This can be done by hovering over the link to see the destination.

Continue to educate yourself on how to spot scams, while being mindful that exercising caution is your first best step to protecting yourself.   Be prepared by thinking twice before you click or react to any message or phone call. Take a breath and take the time to do a bit of research. I will save you a world of trouble.

Continue your education, read about Common Scams – Part 2.

Identity thieves are continually on the look out for new methods to steal your identity.  It may be a new scheme using existing technology or the use of a new technology.  When cyber criminals get creative it means the rest of us need to get more vigilant about internet security.

Mostly, we need to pay closer attention. People tend to have their guard down when they are on a new app that couldn’t possibly be used as a scam.  Or could it?   For example, people a more prone to question a potential scam on Facebook, because these schemes are common and well documented.

Parents have also read many articles about the popular apps that kids are using, such as Snapchat, Kik Messenger, and WhatsApp.

Education is the first step to protect yourself, but as technology continues to advance there is never a time to stop learning.

Fitness Scams

When I first heard about fitness scams my first thought was, huh?  I couldn’t imagine what it was.  Perhaps it was about people being approached while someone was outside jogging or working out in a gym.

On the contrary, this scam happens through fitness apps.  We usually don’t think of a fitness app being related to social media.  But when people connect with other joggers, yoga partners, or weightlifters, they are now socially connected with these friends and colleagues

This is when cyber thieves begin to work their schemes to steal someone’s private data, glean money through a scam, or find out where a person lives.

Criminals also use a person’s passion for health and fitness to entice you with tried-and-true methods, like incredible offers via email or text. If you receive a text message that claims to have a drug for a cheap price that can make you lose weight immediately, you should not follow the link and purchase it, even if the deal appears to be too good to pass up.

Ways to Protect Yourself

Many fitness trackers will store users’ locations on their systems, and if this information gets into the wrong hands, it could be used for malicious purposes.  Keep your account secure with a good password and email/text authorization to ensure no one can attempt to log in without your knowledge.

And regarding the social media aspect of a fitness app.  If you are sharing your location or connecting with others through the app, scrutinize all communication.  If you receive a message on a legitimate fitness app from someone new or a friend, it does not mean the message is safe.  It could be a scammer attempting to build a fitness relationship with you learn personal information about you.

These fake relationships start innocently enough, but over time they will try to get personal information from you.  You also don’t know if a friends apps has been hacked and it’s a scammer contact you from their account.

Quishing: Malicious QR Code Scams

Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Quishing is like is Phishing (email scams), Smishing (SMS text scams), and Vishing (voice call scams).  QR codes are common but if you are not familiar them or have never scanned one, here’s how they work:

QR codes are a type of barcode that can be scanned using a smartphone camera. When scanned, the code opens a website, pdf, or other type of digital page.  If a malicious QR code gets scanned, it could lead to malware or a malicious website.

This QR code when scanned on your phone will take you to our website’s home page.  You can trust it’s safe because we created it.  Always be cautious of unsolicited emails with QR codes.  Before scanning a code, verify the legitimacy of the website or the email sender. QR codes are a legitimate method used for authentication purposes on your phone. 

Scanning a malicious QR code is the same as clicking a malicious email link or in a text message. It will either infect your computer or access personal information from you.

However, they can cause havoc if created by a hacker.  Check for red flags such as suspicious email addresses or requests for sensitive information.  But even an email address you know could be used to carry out the scam, such as a hacked email account of someone you know.  It may require you to talk to or text the person who sent for confirmation.

For an added layer of protection, consider using a trusted QR code scanner app instead of scanning with your camera phone.  These apps often scan for malicious URL’s and give warnings about potential dangers.

Scams Powered by AI

Thanks to new developments in artificial intelligence scammers are taking advantage. This new technology is accessible to anyone for any purpose, good or bad.  Using AI allows users to make  presentations more realistic, even to those who are suspicious.

AI is used by scammers for:

• Writing:  AI can write emails and texts and track response rates of the message to increase effectiveness. Traditionally, one of the common traits of a scam message is misspelled words and grammatical error.  This can be eliminated using AI.

• Voice:  Be extra cautious of calls from friends or employers who ask for personal information.  AI can mimic a voice to be a certain age or have a specific accent. Scammers no long need to make these calls themselves, which opens up the scary prospect that AI could even have a conversation with you. Plus, it’s all automated like a robocall, but an intelligent one.

• Deepfakes: There is already plenty examples of AI creating deepfakes of celebrities for the purposes of advertising on social media or simply for entertainment.  Deepfakes add authenticity to offers that fool unsuspecting victims who are enticed by big savings or winning a contest.

AI can also produce deepfake photos used to create fake online profiles for romance scams. This is where scammers gain the trust of someone seeking a relationship online and later manipulate their victims to divulge personal information or steal from them.

Event Scams

Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency by offering good deals on sold-out events, but these ticket scams are fake. They advertise last-minute deals on tickets at prices that seem too good to be true. Phishing emails related to event scams may mimic legitimate ticketing services, including using their official logos and similar language.

Official sources are the safest bet for streaming events. By sticking to these sources, you reduce the risk of encountering scams that exploit the popularity of streaming services.

Cybercriminals will also use social media to advertise fraudulent streaming services. These ads might lead to fake websites designed to steal personal or financial information.

To avoid streaming platform scams, one should try to stick to the official broadcasting lists from the event’s website or official social media page.

Payment Apps

Banking fraud is common there has been much education about how to avoid divulging login details about your accounts. However, with the dawn of new payments apps it’s never been easier to send and received money to and from friends and family.  These convenience of not having to deal directly with your bank makes it easier for scammers to steal from you.

Spoofing calls may be made to you about security issues and requesting personal information regarding a payment app you may be using.  You may also receive links from your bank or payment app requested you to login to verify or correct information.  In any of these situations, be very suspect.

In general, one should always pay close attention to the apps they are downloading. Recently, Apple found an app in their store that was mimicking a reputable password manager app.

Cyber Gateways for Scammers

Are cybercriminals watching you or listening to your conversations? Many don’t think about Bluetooth and how it can affect your privacy and even computer security in the home. Hackers can access your devices and data if your Wi-Fi or Bluetooth settings are weak.  They can learn personal information about you to carry out targeted phishing attacks against you and your family members.

Bluetooth Security and Smart Devices

Fortunately, there are steps your can take to make sure your home is secure.  We’ll first explore Bluetooth vulnerabilities, followed by what you can do to increase awareness and safety.

Potential Bluetooth Vulnerabilities

Here are things you need to be aware of when it comes to smart devices.

Eavesdropping Attacks

Devices like Alexa and Google Home make our lives easier, but they can be hacked, and malware can be installed to listen in on your conversations.

Device Hacking

Smart appliances like washing machines and refrigerators rarely have their default passwords changed. These can be used as a means to infect every other device on the network.

BlueBorne

BlueBorne is a set of vulnerabilities that affect devices with Bluetooth connections, allowing attackers to potentially take control of devices, spread malware, or steal data without requiring the devices to be paired.

Bluetooth Sniffing

Bluetooth signals can sometimes be intercepted by nearby devices using specialized equipment, allowing attackers to eavesdrop on communications between devices.

Weak Encryption

Some Bluetooth devices may use weak encryption methods or have security flaws that make them susceptible to brute-force attacks. To protect against weak encryption vulnerabilities, use Bluetooth devices that support stronger encryption protocols, such as Bluetooth 4.2 or later, and keep your devices updated with the latest firmware.

Bluetooth Impersonation Attacks

Attackers may attempt to impersonate trusted Bluetooth devices to gain unauthorized access to your device or data. To prevent Bluetooth impersonation attacks, be cautious when connecting to unknown devices and verify the authenticity of Bluetooth devices before pairing with them.

Smart Doorbells

Cybercriminals use a search engine called Shodan for this purpose. Cybercriminals use a specialized IoT search engine to find unsecured devices or devices with only a default password in place.

Solutions to Enhance Bluetooth Security

Bluetooth Pairing:  Make sure to pair devices in a secure environment and verify the devices’ identities during pairing. Avoid pairing with unknown or untrusted devices. Use strong, unique passwords for Bluetooth pairing whenever possible.  Replace any default pin codes.

Separate Your Networks:   Your fridge and laptop should never be on the same network. If they are, hackers could gain access to your data on any device connected to your Wi-Fi. Even home surveillance cameras and become infected with malicious code to carry out cyber attacks.

More Tips for Bluetooth Set Up and Usage

• Avoid Using outdated Bluetooth devices.
• Keep your Bluetooth-enabled devices updated with the latest firmware and security patches.
• Disable Bluetooth when not in use, especially in public places.
• Consider using Bluetooth devices that support secure pairing methods, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Secure Connections.
• Regularly monitor your device for suspicious activity and review Bluetooth connection logs if available.
• Devices that are loaded with sensitive personal and business information should never be on the same network as IoT devices which are more vulnerable to attacks.

Smart TVs

IoT devices are a network of physical devices that connect and exchange data with each other over the internet. IoT stands for the Internet of Things.  Basically, anything connected to the internet.  One device that is often forgotten about is the Smart TV.  Because Smart TVs connect to the internet and are therefore considered an IoT device.

Though convenient, Smart TVs can be exposed to cyber threats similar to phones and laptops.  Cybercriminals who have hacked a Smart TV may change your privacy and security settings. They can even lock you out of your TV ask and as you for payment to unlock it.  This is called a ransomware attack.

Hacking into you TV can allow them to access private information, including your credit card details.  A hacked TV allows scammers can watch you and listen to you from your TV. And just like any security breach, they can send you targeted phishing attacks based on what they have learned about you.

Hacked TVs also become a gateway to access other devices that are connected to your home network.  Also, once inside your TV, cybercriminals can create malicious apps designed to look like legitimate ones.

Ways to Prevent Smart TV Hacks

• Make sure your software is up to date. Do it manually when you think of it and enable automatic updates for those times you forget.
• Use strong and unique passwords for account associated with the TV.
• If you can hard wire your connection, this is much safer than using Wi-Fi.
• If you wonder if you TV has been hacked because of strange activity, disconnect it from the internet and perform a factory reset.
• Be sure update other passwords across all other accounts and make them unique from each other, including your Smart TV

Cyber awareness about all the devices connected to the internet in home will help keep you accounts and devices safe.

Election Scams

Elections scams are not new, but AI technology is adding fuel to the fire as those with ulterior motives seeks to disrupt and influence election outcomes.

Cybercriminals often impersonate political figures to deceive users into revealing personal information, downloading malware, or donating money to fraudulent causes. They distort reality and exploit the stress and excitement around elections to manipulate users.

Deepfakes can be used to impersonate political candidates, making it sound like they said things they never did. Deepfakes distort voters’ perception of reality and can have serious consequences for voter perception and trust.

Fake Social Media Accounts can spread disinformation quickly, making it sound credible and widespread. This can also lead to phishing attacks.  Bots are also rampant online doing the work of scammers at an increasingly fast pace.

Foreign influence campaigns aim to create division and undermine trust in the election process. Campaigns might use phishing emails, fake social media accounts, or bots to steal personal information, install malware, and spread disinformation.

Advice to Avoid Falling for Election Scams

Practice Skepticism

Question sensational or shocking content, especially on social media.  Verify authenticity through multiple sources, including fact checking websites.  Be weary of accounts with generic photos and ones that repost from other sources frequently.

Scrutinize Unsolicited Emails and Phone Calls

Don’t give out any personal information.  Avoid clicking any links.  Verify details of the call or email by contacting a candidate or political party directly.

Check Website Security

When visiting any website for any reason, check for basic security.  Ensure it has the https: before the URL. It should also shows a secure symbol in front of it, such as a padlock.  Do not engage any website that is not secure.  Leave the website and search Google for legitimate websites related to what you are seeking to do online.

Be wary of AI chatbots used by scammers. These bots can mimic human conversations, making it harder to detect fraud. Scammers may use them to steal personal information, trick users into financial schemes, or spread malware. Always verify the source of any chatbot interaction, avoid sharing sensitive details, and be cautious of unsolicited messages that seem too good to be true.

Final Reminders

Always use official sources for information. Stay away from social media as a reliable source for information, even if it looks like a trusted news or government website or account.

If any of your accounts are compromised in a breach you should change your password immediately.  The same goes if someone guessed your password and manages to log in.  After changing your password, take the steps offered within each of your accounts to enhance login security.

Never give our personal information over the phone until you are sure who you are speaking with.  Tell the caller you will call them back at the number you have in your contacts.  The same goes for links.  Don’t click a link in an email.  Visit your bank or employer’s website directly from one of your bookmarks or by searching Google.

Learn more about how scammers try to dupe you into clicking malicious links or responding to messages with personal information.  Give yourself a well-rounded education about common scams and remember to never stop discovering ways to protect your devices and your identity.