Cybersecurity concerns us all!
Today, online scammers have mastered the art of manipulating their victims’ emotions. Boost your cybersecurity by learning to spot their tricks and developing smart habits to safeguard yourself.
Emotional manipulation is cybersecurity’s biggest threat
With the rise of online shopping and interactions, it’s essential to be aware of the tactics used by fraudsters who prey on our emotions to deceive us. Older individuals are frequently targeted by these scammers.
These cybercriminals use clever manipulation to exploit our emotions and get what they want. But by understanding their moves, we can remain one step ahead and help our loved ones stay safe online. Here’s a rundown of the top emotions fraudsters target and some advice on how to protect yourself.
Fear
Be cautious of online scammers who use scare tactics to trick you into acting quickly. You might get a fake call from the police or a threat that your bank account will be suspended.
Stay calm and think twice before reacting. Check if the call or email is genuine, and never give away sensitive information like your phone number, social security number or credit card details when pressured.
Urgency
Fraudsters also use fake emergencies to trick you, including the so-called “grandparent scam” where they pretend to be a grandchild or other relative in trouble, asking for urgent help, money or personal information like banking details.
In such cases, it’s essential to remember that financial institutions never ask for sensitive information to be communicated over the phone or via email. If you receive such a request, the first thing to do is to take the time to verify the situation by contacting the person who is allegedly in distress.
Empathy
Be cautious of scammers who pose as individuals in difficulty or family members struggling financially. They may appeal to your empathy to trick you into sending them money.
Before offering help, ensure you check the person’s identity and the legitimacy of the situation. Be wary of approaches that exploit your compassion, as they can lead to significant financial losses.
Curiosity
Be cautious of fraudsters using attractive offers, such as unexpected windfalls, to pique your interest. They may also use advanced computer systems to make their pitches more convincing.
Be wary of pressure to act immediately. Instead, take the time to think before responding to hurried requests or offers that seem too good to be true, as they often are.
Romance
Romance fraud involves creating fake online profiles to woo victims into virtual relationships, often on social media like Facebook. Then, they exploit these connections to extort money through fabricated stories.
These scams can appear on various online platforms, including dating apps and similar sites. Victims may be asked for sensitive information, supposedly to build a future together.
Fraud against older individuals, as with the rest of the population, is a menace to be eliminated. The key to protecting oneself against these emotional manipulations, is vigilance. Reflect before making a move. Never share confidential information online without prior verification, and don’t hesitate to seek help from a trusted friend or family member if something seems suspicious.
By staying informed and trusting your instincts, you can avoid online scammers’ traps to safely enjoy your digital life.
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