The Internet has emerged as one of the most widely used platforms for fraud, and hackers are developing increasingly sophisticated hacking methods. As a result, it’s crucial for customers to only conduct financial transactions over secure, trustworthy wireless networks and to be aware that any personal information they disclose online may be utilized by scammers to commit online fraud.
With only a few clicks, we can now easily complete a purchase from anywhere at any time thanks to online payments. However, one bad click might put you in serious financial problems. Whether you frequently use online banking or have reservations about it, you must take basic safety precautions when transacting online.
With S$227.8 million lost to the top 10 scam types, an increase of approximately 60% in value from the same period last year, scams continued to be a major contributor to an increase in total crime in the first half of the year. Police crime figures issued on Monday (Aug 29) indicated that 25,593 total criminal cases were reported from January to June this year, up from 18,725 cases in the first half of previous year.
Scams were involved in more than half of the reported crimes during the first half of this year, accounting for nearly 56% of all offences. This percentage was roughly 41% over the same time period the previous year.
You can prevent a financial catastrophe by having a basic understanding of online scams. Here are a few sensible steps you may take to safeguard your online identity and defend yourself against fraud. In this article, we will be giving you 6 different tips on the preventive measures towards digital scams.
1. Always keep your mobile devices and laptops up to date
The best protection against viruses, malware, and other online risks is to use the most recent versions of your operating system, web browser, and security software. Activate automatic updates to get the most recent fixes as soon as they are released.
2. Be wary of phishing fraud
Phishing scams deceive users into divulging confidential account or login information by using phony emails and websites. Never open any attachments, pop-up windows or click any links from sites you are unfamiliar with.
3. Preserve the privacy of personal data
Social media profiles can be used by hackers to discover your passwords and the answers to the security questions in the password reset tools. Don’t share information like your mother’s maiden name, birthday, or address online. Instead, secure your privacy settings. Be wary of calls for connection from strangers.
4. Visit only authorized websites
Watch out for fake websites that could appear legitimate or have the same domain name as the real one in the URL. Check your browser’s address bar for the lock icon and “https://” before “www.”
5. Use only apps that have been verified
We increasingly shop and transact differently thanks to mobile apps. However, be careful to only use verified apps if you install new ones on your device. Download only from legitimate app shops, such as the Apple Software Store, Windows Store, or Google Play Store, whether it’s a new game or a financial app.
6. Never click on dubious links in emails or SMS messages
The most popular methods of deceiving individuals into falling for fraud are link baiting, phony emails, and SMS. These sites could seem legitimate and catch your eye with promises of a lottery win or an abroad career. Avoid clicking on any of these links because they could take you to a phishing website and disable the security features on your mobile device. In the event that you receive an obtrusive call, it is preferable to hang up.
Lastly, this webpage https://www.scamadviser.com/ could come in handy if you are still unsure. Scam adviser allows you to track the website ratings to deter from phishing or fraud cases when you are feeling unsure.
Have you been scammed before? Share this experience to raise some awareness today!
–
