The world of technology is both exciting and scary. Your business thrives off the use of it, but your maker can also become your destroyer. Online fraud is one of the most widespread forms of cybercrime out there, and one of the easiest to commit. These attackers use technology to steal your identity and financial information, which can result in the draining of your bank accounts and abuse of your credit card.
You might not be able to handle the blow.
These cybercriminals are becoming professionals, and they are relentless. The world of technology is always changing and these attackers are quickly growing with it. You wouldn’t want to just hand over your hard-earned money to a stranger; and that’s why it’s so crucial to protect yourself and your business.
Beware of:
- Email scams,
- Spoof sites,
- Phishing attempts,
- Suspicious transactions.
Using your gut-instinct always pays off in these situations, if something does not seem right, then it probably isn’t. They will use all sorts of means to obtain your personal and financial information, such as unsolicited emails, chat rooms, websites, message boards, and social networks. It’s important you use discretion when posting confidential information online, and always know who your audience is.
Be smarter than the cybercriminals, avoid potential fraud situations and always practice safety. The success of your business is crucial, and it might not have a future if you’ve been compromised.
Use these preventative tips:
- Keep operating systems and software up-to-date: Always use the newest anti-virus, anti-spyware and Internet Firewall upgrades.
- Create strong passwords: Passwords are your first line of defense. Always change them regularly and never use the same ones for different sites and programs. Use at least eight characters and include symbols, numbers, upper and lower case letters.
- Keep financial and personal information private: Never send confidential information by email and never give your PIN through the phone, emails or phone messages. Always, always, always, be sure you know who is receiving this information.
- Beware attachments: Especially from senders you don’t know. Beware of free suspicious files, programs, software, emails, and Internet popups.
- Don’t keep financial information on your laptop: Laptops can easily be stolen, always use complicated passwords and encryption on your devices. Also, always destroy financial data once you are finished with it. Never leave traces that could easily be found.
- Clear your cache: It can be easy for someone to snoop through your Internet history and retrieve personal and financial information you have used, always clear your cache as soon as you are finished using a site.
- Use encrypted sites: If a site asks if you wish to use encryption, always opt for “https” is a great site indicator that it has been independently verified and it is reliable. Also keep on the lookout for padlock symbols to verify the use of secure login and payment processes.
- Never use free wireless connections: Sure, they can be convenient while you are traveling, but cybercriminals have become smart and started setting up their own free wireless connections to trick you. Always check with the staff and ensure you are using their free services.
Educating yourself on current threats and preventative measures is simply good business sense. It’s a powerful tactic and puts you a step ahead when you enforce comprehensive security measures within your business.
PNJ Technology Partners knows comprehensive security measures are essential to warding off cybercriminals. We manage all of your information technology to cover all the bases – making sure you’re protected and operating in the most efficient manner. You can contact (518) 459-6712 or email us at info@pnjtechpartners.com to speak with one of our IT specialists.
