Internet security isn’t all about firewalls and antivirus software. Sometimes scammers get into your network (and even your heart) via much more nefarious means. Watch out for these three common types of con jobs, and remind your employees that falling for these scams while using work equipment or network can put the whole company at risk.
The “helpful technician”. These scammers actually pretend to be helpful computer technicians who reach out to you offering to “help” with a problem that they have “detected” on your machine or within your network. Of course, they need remote access to both your computer and network in order to perform their “repairs”. In reality, you’ve actually just allowed access to a con artist who might steal your data, install malware, break into your bank accounts, or commit some other nefarious act.
The “family member”. This con artist often impersonates grandchildren who have supposedly encountered some sort of emergency and need urgent help. Grandparents who are less tech-savvy fall for this scheme all the time, wiring money to the scammers or allowing them access to bank accounts. But it’s not always pretend grandchildren; scammers who view your social media accounts might pretend to be any number of relatives. This is especially true if they’ve hacked into a Facebook account, and are now controlling that person’s Messenger app. Always call the troubled relative on the phone, via the number you know, and confirm the situation before helping in any way.
The romance scam. This con artist can raid bank accounts, send you malware, and even leave you with a broken heart. Beware of anyone who goes after your heart and works hard to earn your trust online; meet in person and get to know them in real life. And make sure your employees know to keep your work equipment and network very separate from their personal lives!
You can prevent falling victim to scams involving malware, data theft, or compromised passwords and accounts, by launching your defense immediately. Give us a call at 888-RING-MY-TECH for more information on how to quickly combat any type of online scams, so that you can avoid them and minimize potential damage as much as possible.
