This vigilant approach by Jeanne demonstrates the importance of being cautious and skeptical when dealing with unsolicited emails, especially those claiming to be from official sources.
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What type of scam is this?
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What to do if you receive one of these scam emails?
1) Flag the email
2) Don’t open any attachments or links
3) Do not respond to the email or reach out to these scammers over the phone or any other method
4) Recognizing and reporting a Social Security scam
If there is a problem with a person’s Social Security number or record, Social Security will typically mail a letter. You can learn more about recognizing Social Security-related scams, including how to report a scam quickly and easily online to Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General, by reading more at www.ssa.gov/scams.
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8 ways to prevent phishing scammers from reaching you
Preventing yourself from being a target of a scam can save you loads of anxiety and trouble. Below are 8 ways to prevent yourself from being a victim in the first place.
1) Verify or sign up for a Social Security account
Whether you already have an account or not, regularly verifying your Social Security account is crucial. For those who haven’t, visit the official Social Security Administration website to create one. Since only one account can be registered per Social Security number, securing yours prevents others from fraudulently claiming it. If you already have an account, ensure it’s linked to a secure email that you check often and review your account statements to spot any discrepancies. This proactive approach helps safeguard your personal information and alerts you to any unauthorized activity.
2) Use two-factor authentication
Always enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online accounts. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods. It’s not just a password; it could be a code sent to your phone, a fingerprint, or a facial scan. This makes it much harder for scammers to gain unauthorized access.
3) Keep software and systems updated
Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Regularly updating your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications can protect you from these threats. You can also set your devices to update automatically so you don’t have to remember to do it manually.
4) Secure your personal information
Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Think twice before entering sensitive details on websites, especially if you’re unsure they’re legitimate. Use privacy settings on social media to control who can see your information and be wary of unsolicited requests for your personal data.
5) Have strong antivirus software
6) Invest in personal data removal services
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods of obtaining personal information. They often scour the web for publicly available data, piecing together details from various sources to create targeted phishing attacks. These personalized scams can be alarmingly convincing, making it crucial to limit the amount of personal information accessible online.
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8) Directly reach out to the real organizations for verification
Just like Jeanne did, contact the government agency, financial institution, or company directly using contact information from their official websites. Ensure that you never use any contact details provided in unsolicited communications, as these can be falsified by scammers to mislead you and become a potential victim.
By incorporating these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of phishing scams. Stay vigilant and proactive in protecting your personal information.
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Kurt’s key takeaways
When it comes to protecting yourself from scammers, you can never be too prepared. Let’s face it: these fraudsters are getting craftier by the day. They’re like those pesky weeds in your garden – just when you think you’ve got them all, a new one pops up. But don’t let that get you down. With the tips we’ve covered, you’re now armed and ready to spot these scams from a mile away. Stay skeptical of those fishy emails, and when in doubt, reach out to the real organizations directly. And hey, if you ever feel overwhelmed, just think of Jeanne from Hackensack. She didn’t fall for the scam, and neither will you. You’ve got this.
Have you received a scam email from anyone pretending to be from a governmental agency? How did you respond? Let us know in the comments below.
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