Spearphishing Alert: Three Common Scams to Be Aware Of
A tipsheet for your company newsletter or your family. The text below is also useful for a newsletter article.
1. Impersonation Scams
What Are They? Scammers impersonate trusted entities like banks or service companies, often via phone or SMS, to request personal information or financial actions.
Global Trend: A significant portion of reported scams globally involve some form of impersonation.
How to Protect Yourself:
Be skeptical of requests to transfer funds or share sensitive information.
Never share passwords.
Avoid using contact details from unsolicited messages.
Always verify through official channels like company websites.
2. Investment Scams
Growing Concern: These sophisticated scams promise quick, high returns and are difficult to recognize.
Common Types:
Unsolicited investment offers (cryptocurrencies, fake bonds, misleading IPOs).
Fake celebrity endorsements.
Dubious schemes involving early access to retirement funds or similar financial products.
3. Buyer/Seller Scams
Online Marketplace Risks: Increased scam activities on popular selling platforms.
Signs of a Scam:
Sellers or buyers without a profile photo.
Prices that seem unrealistically low or high.
Requests for personal information.
Overpayment scams and requests for refunds.
Payment demands via unorthodox methods like gift cards or prepaid shipping labels.
Stay Alert, Stay Secure
Key Takeaway: Awareness and vigilance are your primary defenses against spearphishing.
