Global Tensions Present Cyber Threats Across The Internet

The White House has recently released a statement warning US citizens of the threat of ‘malicious cyber activity’ in response the the war in Ukraine. Many of the recommendations are consistent with SPARKS!’ messaging over the years:

• Protect your accounts with secure passwords and multi-factor authentication. We recommend using a password manager for security and ease of use.
• Avoid phishing and do not open any suspicious emails! Here are a few email safety tips.
• Update your anti-virus, anti-malware and security software as well as your operating system, apps and other systems. View a list of known exploits at CISA.gov
• Backup, backup, backup! Take advantage of offsite options and cloud providers such as Dropbox and Microsoft OneDrive.

You can view the view the entire White House Fact Sheet online.

Social Media Hacks Escalating

Email isn’t the only platform vulnerable to hacking. The security platform Malwarebytes reports an increase in phishing attempts targeting Facebook and other social media users. Remember, don’t open any suspicious email links and go to the actual website to login and verify any communications or changes.

Stay safe out there…please!

If you’ve never heard of SMS phishing, or SMiShing, you’re not alone. Most people aren’t aware of how at risk they are of becoming a victim of the criminal activity, but it’s becoming increasingly prevalent in this day and age.

What is SMiShing?

A type of phishing, SMiShing occurs when someone is tricked into giving out private information through a text or SMS message.  This is especially dangerous because while most people know not to open suspicious links in emails, many are still trusting of texts regardless of how unfamiliar the number is. In today’s ever-changing online world, it can be hard to know how to effectively guard against it.

Someone looking to steal your information, or a “SMSiSher”, could be looking to gain access to anything from your online passwords, your Social Security Number, or your credit card information. The scammers use a variety of tactics to manipulate the victim and get the information they want, such as warning the recipient of the message that they’ll be charged if they don’t click on a link and provide their personal information.

How do you know you’re being SMiShed?

Typically, you should be cautious when you receive a text message from someone that you don’t know. If the text isn’t from a saved number, or if it doesn’t look like a phone number at all, proceed with caution. For instance, if the text comes from a phone number like “5000”, it’s almost definitely fraudulent. If someone sends you a link, take a minute to make sure it’s legitimate and not a scam.

Usually, texts that urge you to take action on something extremely urgent right away are a sign that it’s not to be trusted and could be someone trying to SMiSh you.

Protecting yourself against SMiShing

Adding a VPN to your phone is a great way to stay staff and secure your text message conversations. Don’t download any apps from anywhere other than the app store. Never store your credit card or banking information anywhere on your smart phone. If someone does try to SMiSh you, report it so that it doesn’t happen to you or others in the future.

The most effective way to guard against SMiShing is to simply not respond to the text message. As long as you’re cautious and use common sense, you’ll be able to keep your information safe.

Want to learn more?

The digital world is always changing, and SPARKS! is here to help. Contact us today or give us a call at 410-244-5111 and let us help you with all of your website needs.