If you are watching, reading or streaming the news you know that we are in the midst of a war. Many of us think of war as tanks, guns, and missiles but if you paid attention to the news stories the word “cyber” was included. A cyberwar covers a lot of territory, and you need to pay close attention to your emails and text messages. Often fraudulent emails will ask you to do something like click on a link within that email. Look before you click! Is this email really from who you think?
Look at how the email is addressing you? Is your name being used or are they calling you “customer”? Look at the email address that it is coming from that is a big clue does it match other emails from this company? If you are the least bit unsure do not reply, do not click on the link. Call the company or log in to their actual website and go to the help section or security and explain what has happened. Often, they will have you forward the fraudulent email to them so their fraud department can research. At that time, you will also want to change your password for that company. At all times keep your eyes on your money and all financial related accounts, checking accounts, and credit cards. Check your balances daily, research your accounts for transactions that look suspicious.
Report any transactions that you did not make immediately. Call your bank directly using the number on the back of your debit card. When you get fraudulent phone calls once you realize it’s not a real phone call hang up. Don’t waste time trying to outwit the caller this is what they do for a living. Save your time and energy and let them move on to the next call. If you can see that they are calling from the same number multiple times block that number. These are trying times and these issues will be around for a long time. Beware.
Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com
Click Here to View All “Lifestyles with Debbie Norrell” Articles
