By Norm Massry, Outsourced Cybersecurity Consultant
Cybercriminals are getting more creative and more aggressive. From fake E-ZPass violations to phony DMV warnings, scammers are using fear and urgency to trick people into clicking malicious links, sharing sensitive information, or unknowingly downloading harmful software.
These types of attacks fall under a category known as social engineering, where scammers impersonate someone you know or trust to manipulate you into giving up personal data or access to systems. Phishing and pretexting are two of the most common forms, and they’re getting harder to spot.
So how can you protect yourself?
1. Know the Warning Signs of a Scam
Scam messages often look official and convincing, but there are red flags if you know what to look for.
Check the sender
- Email: Scammers often use addresses that look nearly identical to legitimate ones. Instead of support@yourbank.com, you might see support@yourbank123.com.
- Text/SMS: Fraudulent texts often come from long, odd-looking numbers that mimic international formats.
Look for spelling and grammar mistakes
Professional companies proofread their messages. Scammers? Not so much. Watch for awkward phrasing like:
- “Your account has been lock!”
- “Click here to verify your detail.”
Beware of fear tactics
Phishing messages are designed to create panic and push you to act fast. Examples include:
- “Your E-ZPass account is past due and will be locked in 24 hours!”
- “Your bank account has been compromised—click here to secure it!”
Real businesses don’t use threats or pressure tactics over email or text. When in doubt, call the business directly using a verified number—not the one in the suspicious message.
2. Stay Smart When Reading Messages
Scammers often disguise links and file attachments to look harmless. Here’s what to do:
- Don’t click links in suspicious emails or texts. Hover over the link to see the real destination.
- Never download attachments from unknown or unexpected sources. They could contain viruses or ransomware.
- Watch out for generic greetings. “Dear customer” or “Dear user” is a red flag. Legitimate companies will usually address you by name.
- Ignore unsolicited messages asking for passwords or account details. No reputable company will ask you to confirm personal information through email or text.
3. Use Tools to Your Advantage
Even the most cautious internet users can make mistakes. That’s why it’s critical to have extra layers of protection:
- Spam filters help block phishing emails before they reach your inbox.
- Anti-virus and anti-spyware software scan for malicious content and programs.
- Firewalls provide a barrier between your device and cyber threats.
4. Always Verify Before You Trust
If you receive a message claiming to be from a familiar company or government agency, don’t act on it right away. Instead:
- Contact the organization directly using official contact info.
- Look for signs of legitimacy on their website or call their customer service.
5. Remember: If It Sounds Too Good to Be True…
Scammers love dangling irresistible offers or prizes. If you didn’t sign up for a contest, you probably didn’t win anything. Think twice before clicking on those “You’ve won a $500 gift card!” emails.
Cyber scams are becoming more sophisticated, but awareness is your best defense. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and take time to verify messages before clicking, downloading, or responding. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid becoming the next victim of a cybercrime—and help protect others by spreading the word.
