Cybercriminals are becoming more creative, using sophisticated tactics to trick unsuspecting individuals and businesses. While technology evolves, so do the methods these criminals use to breach security. Below are five ways cybercriminals are getting craftier:
1. Facebook Messages and Comments Claiming Account Issues
A common scam currently plaguing Facebook users involves receiving messages or comments claiming their account is about to be deleted. These messages often suggest that urgent action must be taken to avoid losing access, or they might prompt users to purchase merchandise to “validate” their account. These malicious links often lead to phishing sites designed to steal login credentials.
How to Protect Yourself:
Always double-check the legitimacy of messages by verifying them with Facebook directly via official channels.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links, even if they appear to be from friends or well-known brands.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your account to add an extra layer of security.
2. Spam Text Messages from “FedEx” and Other Delivery Services
Receiving text messages from “FedEx” or other delivery services saying that your package is on the way or needs to be tracked has become a popular phishing tactic. These texts often include a suspicious link, which directs victims to a fraudulent site that asks for personal information or financial details. With the increase in online shopping, especially post-pandemic, people are more likely to fall for these types of messages.
How to Protect Yourself:
Check your actual delivery notifications through the official websites of companies like FedEx, UPS, or USPS.
Never click on a link in a text message that seems suspicious or asks for personal information.
Report any phishing attempts to your carrier or the company the scammer is impersonating.
3. Fake Emails from Trusted Brands Offering Fake Discounts
Cybercriminals are now sending convincing emails that appear to come from well-known brands, offering steep discounts or limited-time deals. These emails look legitimate, complete with logos and professional formatting, but the links inside often direct you to phishing sites or install malware on your device. Brands such as Amazon, Walmart, and popular clothing retailers are frequent targets for impersonation.
How to Protect Yourself:
Verify any promotional emails by visiting the brand’s official website directly instead of clicking on email links.
Check for small discrepancies in the email address, such as misspellings or incorrect domains (e.g., .net instead of .com).
Use email filters to help catch and block phishing attempts before they reach your inbox.
4. Deepfake Videos and Audio Targeting Businesses
Deepfake technology, which creates realistic but fake videos or audio, is becoming a tool for cybercriminals targeting businesses. In these scams, cybercriminals mimic executives or other trusted figures within a company, instructing employees to transfer funds or provide sensitive information. These deepfakes can be highly convincing, making them particularly dangerous for businesses.
How to Protect Yourself:
Always verify requests for sensitive information or financial transactions through multiple channels, especially if they come in the form of video or audio.
Train employees on how to recognize potential deepfakes, and implement strict internal controls for authorizing transactions.
Use AI-driven detection software to identify deepfake content.
5. QR Code Scams at Public Locations
With the increased use of QR codes for menus, payments, and other services, scammers are now exploiting this technology by placing fake QR codes in public spaces. These QR codes lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information or install malware. Victims often don’t realize anything is wrong until it’s too late, as QR codes look legitimate and have become a common, trusted tool in daily life.
How to Protect Yourself:
Only scan QR codes from trusted sources, such as official websites or apps.
Be cautious of QR codes in random public locations, especially if they appear to be unofficial or placed over legitimate codes.
Use security apps that can scan QR codes for malicious intent before opening them.
Cybercriminals are continuously adapting and finding new ways to exploit people and businesses. Staying informed about the latest tactics can help protect your personal information and financial security. Regularly updating your cybersecurity practices, being cautious with messages and links, and educating yourself and your employees about potential scams are vital in the ongoing fight against cybercrime.
Contact BIS Today to Protect Your Business from Cyber Criminals
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, but you don’t have to face them alone. BIS offers comprehensive IT and cybersecurity solutions to safeguard your business from the latest scams and cyberattacks. Our expert team is ready to help you strengthen your defenses, so you can focus on growing your business without worrying about cybercriminals. Serving businesses in Robertsdale, AL, Pensacola, FL, and Mobile, AL, BIS is your local partner in cybersecurity. Contact us today to learn how we can protect your company’s data and systems from the ever-growing threats of the digital world.
Phillip Long – CISSP, CEO of , along with his team of marketing and information technology experts, will walk you through an overview of what your business should be doing to protect your data and plan your digital marketing strategies.
You may reach out to us at: Phone: 251-405-2555 Email: support@askbis.com
