High-Level Execs Prime Targets For Whaling Attacks

Why settle for minnows when whales make much bigger, better targets? That’s a question hackers might ask themselves when determining their next victim. With no shortage of information available online about C-Suite and other high-level executives, they make lucrative email phishing targets. These execs are known as “whales” and bad actors love reeling them in because it pays big time. Because these execs can make large wire transfers happen, among other things, they have become a gold standard for phishing, fraud, and profits. READ FULL STORY

How To Tell If Your Webcam Has Been Compromised

Sometimes, does it always feel like someone is watching you? Does your television turn on in the middle of the night? Do you feel eyes on you when you’re at the computer? Your television issue might just be a problem with the remote. But, the computer eeriness? That might actually be someone wanting to launch a ransomware attack or it could be a Peeping Tom. Detecting whether your webcam has been hacked is crucial for protecting your privacy and security, so we are here to help. READ FULL STORY

Facebook, Instagram Shopping Scams Run Wild And Rake In Millions

Data recently released by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) shows that the number of complaints about social media shopping scams more than tripled over the last year. Consumers reported losing more than $117 million to this type of scam in just the first six months of 2020 compared to $134 million for all of 2019, according to the FTC’s latest Consumer Protection Data Spotlight. The social media sites overwhelmingly involved in these scams are Facebook and Instagram, with consumer scam reports totaling 94% of all rip-offs involving a specific platform. READ FULL STORY

Slow Browser? It May Have Been Hijacked By Malware

Before calling your internet provider to complain about a slow browser think about this:  It’s no secret malware loves to hide in all kinds of things like adware, spyware, scareware, and fake browser updates. Finding your browser is not only slow, but also acting strangely is a sign something isn’t quite right. If after going through the internet provider's standard toolbox for troubleshooting doesn't help, it’s time to think about malware. READ FULL STORY

Your New Gig Could Be a Money Trap

Cyber crooks are turning “easy side gigs” into dangerous traps, according to Trend Micro’s new Unmasking Task Scams report. Victims are lured with small payouts for liking videos or posting reviews—“easy” gig work— to make an extra bit of cash. But then these victims are pushed to deposit money to “unlock” higher rewards—money they’ll never see again. Some scammers even pose as mentors or real companies. But there are some ways to avoid this when you’re looking for your next gig. READ FULL STORY

Has Your Email Been Hacked? Here’s How You Can Tell And What You Can Do

There are any number of signs that may give you a clue that your email has been hacked. And what do you do if it has? You may wonder what you can do if you suspect that’s the case. Let’s go over a few indicators of a compromised email box and what you can do about it, if it happens to you. Fortunately, there are some indicators for to watch out for and we can provide some suggestions on how to tell and what to do if you do think someone has been in your inbox. READ FULL STORY

Don't Wake Up to a TrickMo Attack

TrickMo, the Android banking trojan is back with a vengeance. The malware has a history of targeting Android phones to steal banking info and money. And now, TrickMo’s latest version is stealing a lot more, and possibly doing it while you’re sleeping. This updated version of TrickMo is being seen worldwide. Since no one wants to wake up to a TrickMo attack, it’s time to grab a cup of coffee, sit in your favorite chair, and learn more about this tricky trojan TrickMo. READ FULL STORY

Good Security Habits Can Go A Long Way In A New Year

It’s a new year! And while everyone will face new cyber risks going forward, it makes it more important than ever for individuals to assume responsibility for safeguarding their devices and data. Threats stay the same, but they also evolve to become more dangerous and new ones pop up like the cork of a champagne bottle. Protecting yourself from all of this begins with education and heeding the advice of cybersecurity experts. While we all think we know all of this already, anyone can become a victim of cybercrime when the circumstances are right. READ FULL STORY

Agencies Warn Not To Click This Holiday Season

Just before the holiday shopping season got completely underway, a joint “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign was announced by the U.S. Attorney’s office, the FBI, and the Idaho State Police. The reason for this star-studded warning? To alert the public about the importance of exercising skepticism and caution when faced with unsolicited online, email, pop-up, or text communications from unknown sources. In other words, it’s a holly jolly phishing season! READ FULL STORY

FBI Issues Alert About Rise in Financial Fraud

You may not know that there’s a day dedicated to elder abuse awareness, but there is. While we think it’s wise to be aware of elder abuse every day, the FBI recently called attention to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by issuing an alert about an uptick in financial crimes against older people. Unfortunately, these scams not only harm people of all ages financially, but leave a lasting emotional damage. Scammers may pretend to be romantic interests, friends or loved ones, technical support professionals, government agents, or financial advisors offering assistance. There is no end to who they may pretend to be and their targets are often elders. READ FULL STORY

Shopping Season Cybersecurity Tips

It’s back….again! It seems like we just went through this period and it’s already time for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday shopping again! Even for those who don’t participate in the holiday shopping season madness can find some great deals this time of year. Unfortunately, all the deals also mean the cyber thieves are lurking around trying to profit from everyone else’s holiday cheer. However, there are some things you can do to lower the risk that your payment card information is stolen. READ FULL STORY

While Charity Scams Never Take a Day Off, Giving Tuesday Brings Out the Grinches

The spirit of giving doesn’t depend on the season. However, when Giving Tuesday comes around every year, scammers are quick to jump on that bandwagon. They exploit generosity, posing as legitimate charities or creating entirely fake ones to steal money and personal information. Their tactics change, but the goal never does: To take advantage of your kindness. Before you donate, take a moment, a little caution goes a long way toward protecting both your wallet and your identity. READ FULL STORY