Conversations for Change: Fighting Fraud: Your Guide to Recognising and Avoiding Scams

In today's ever-changing environment, keeping one step ahead of the fraudsters can seem like a real challenge. Although both fraud and cybercrime come in many shapes and sizes, we have created a quick guide that will help educate you on the simple steps you can take, whether it's in your personal life or at work, to staying safe when it comes to fighting fraud.

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Avoiding fraudsters when you're online

Keep your computers and mobile devices up to date. Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating systems are the best defences against viruses, malware, and other online threats.

Do not click on any suspicious links. It's imperative that you do not click on any links, open any attachments, or pop-up screens from any sources you are not familiar with.

Shop safely. Before shopping online, make sure the website uses secure technology. When you are at the checkout screen, verify that the web address begins with https and also check to make sure there is a small padlock symbol.

Avoiding scams when you're networking on social media

Keep your network manageable. The smaller your social networks are, the easier it will be for you to make sure that you are only communicating with people that you can trust.

Always check the source of a link. Before clicking on a link, check to see what website it will take you to. Be cautious of clicking on it if it is a site that you've never heard of.

Refuse to engage in financial transactions on social networks. Social media scams often ask you to send money to someone electronically. Never send money to anyone you do not know who has reached out to you using social media.

Something phishy about that email? Bin it!

Notify your IT team of suspicious emails. If you are suspicious of an email, then forward it to your IT team. It allows them to investigate and, if necessary, both block the sender and warn your colleagues. Remember, don't open the email or click on any links.

Protect your accounts by using multi-factor authentication. Some accounts offer extra security by requiring two or more credentials to log in to your account. this is called multi-factor authentication.

Beware of time sensitive demands and pressure. Reputable organisations most likely won't need you to take urgent action to prevent your account being shut down. This is usually fraudsters trying to panic users into handing over data.

How to beat the scammers when you're out and about!

Use your mobile data rather than public Wi-Fi. Your mobile data is usually encrypted. If you're on the go, don't have the option of using a secure website, and have no VPN encryption, consider using your mobile data instead of Wi-Fi.

While you're away don't post on social media that you're going to be on holiday. If you're away and really want to share photos, make sure your security settings are so that only your genuine or trusted friends can see them.

Never pay to book an appointment at a passport agency office. The passport office doesn't charge for booking appointments and doesn't work with third-party booking agencies. Assume any outside party offering to book an appointment for you is a scam.

Too good to be true? Mobile scams usually are!

Keep an eye on your phone bill. Unauthorized charges are a clear red flag of scammer activity. If you catch any on your bill, act quickly to report and dispute the fees.

Only use official apps for services. Using third-party apps for services like banking and social media might give them unwanted access. Even worse, providing your login to third-parties might be a phishing scam to steal your credentials.

Create extended-length PINs. Instead of a 4-digit PIN for your lock screen, set your PIN to 6-digits when possible. 6-digit PINs have more possible combinations, making it harder to hack into your phone or accounts.

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Conversations for Change by Apogee Corporation

Our goal is not only to educate you but to drive what Apogee Corporation can do. While at Apogee we aspire to always do more, we know that this is a continual learning experience, come with us on this journey as we delve into these subjects which are close to the hearts of so many.

You can follow the conversation on our website and engage with us on our social media by using #ConversationsForChange.

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