In today's digital world, cybercriminals constantly find new ways to exploit technology and target your personal information. With the increasing use of mobile devices, staying vigilant and protecting yourself from these evolving threats is crucial.

How Scammers Work

New technology can sometimes make it easier for scammers to trick you. For example, they can now fake caller ID information to make it look like they're calling from a trusted company.

Here's a common scenario:

Your phone rings, showing your credit card company's name and number. The caller claims your account is frozen due to missed payments. They ask for your personal and payment information to "fix" the issue, warning about fines if you don't comply.

If you're suspicious and call your credit card company directly, you'll learn this was a scam attempt. The actual company would confirm that there are no issues with your account and help you report the fraud.

The Cost of Cybercrime is Rising: According to Statista, cybercrime is expected to cost the world $23.84 trillion by 2027. This staggering figure highlights why it's crucial to protect yourself online.

These scammers are after your personal and financial details. With this information, they could:

• Steal your identity
• Open fake accounts in your name
• Access your money directly
• Trick you into sending untraceable payments like wire transfers or gift cards

It's tough to spot these scams when they look so real. That's why it's crucial to know how to protect yourself in today's digital world.

Common Scam Tactics to Recognize

While no security measure is perfect, knowing what to look for can significantly reduce your risk of falling for a scam. Scammers are good at making fake emails, websites, ads, social media pages, text messages, and phone calls look real.

However, they often use similar tricks to try to fool you:

1. Creating urgency: They pressure you to act quickly before you can think it through.
2. Using partial truths: They might know some information about you to seem legitimate and get more details.
3. Demanding immediate action: They insist you provide personal, account, or financial information right away to "help" you.

Remember: Real organizations rarely contact you out of the blue, asking for sensitive information. If someone does this, it's likely a scam.

Protect Your Accounts and Devices

To safeguard yourself against cybercrime, follow these practical steps:

• Keep your devices updated: Regularly update your computer, phone, and other devices for the latest security fixes.
• Use security software: Install and update antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall software on all devices.
• Back up your files: Keep multiple copies of important digital files to protect against threats like ransomware.
• Enable multifactor authentication: Use this extra security step for sensitive files, mobile apps, and financial accounts.
• Use a VPN: This ensures secure internet access, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
• Be cautious with public Wi-Fi: Avoid using it for personal information or financial transactions.
• Check website security: Look for 'https' in the web address before entering sensitive information.
• Create strong passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for each account, including numbers, letters, and symbols.
• Monitor your credit: Keep an eye on your credit reports and scores. If you notice anything suspicious, freeze your credit profile.

Avoid Common Scams

Scammers often use fake threats or big promises to trick you. Here's how to stay safe:

• Don't click on unexpected links or files, even if they seem to be from someone you know.
• Never send money to strangers or in response to unusual requests.
• If you get an unexpected message, contact the organization directly using information you find yourself, not from the message.
• Be careful what you share on social media - scammers can use this information.
• Don't trust caller ID alone - it can be faked.
• Avoid giving out private or financial information over the phone, email, or online.
• Never share login security codes with anyone.
• Don't respond to verification requests you didn't initiate.

Remember, i-bank and other legitimate financial institutions rarely ask for sensitive information unexpectedly. If we need to verify your identity due to suspected fraud, we'll ask you to contact us using our official phone number.

If you think you've been scammed:

1. Report it to i-bank immediately
2. Contact your credit card provider
3. File a report with local authorities
4. Report to the Internet Crime Complaint Center
5. Consider reporting to the Federal Trade Commission

Protect Yourself Online

By following these cybersecurity tips, you can browse the internet more safely and keep your finances secure.

Want to learn more about protecting yourself online? Check out our Fraud Resource Center. At i-bank, we're committed to helping you safeguard your financial future. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about your account security. Our team of experts is ready to assist you.