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FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist
For small business owners, having your business online and connected offers a plethora of opportunities to grow and thrive. However, it also presents a minefield of scams that can undermine your hard work and put your business at risk. The key to navigating this landscape safely is not just in having the right technology, but also in understanding the tactics used by scammers and how to effectively counter them. This guide provides essential insights into recognizing, preventing, and responding to online scams, empowering you and your business to operate securely.
It’s vital to understand and recognize the indicators of online scams. With new tools like AI-assisted learning models, evolving social engineering tactics, and more, scammers are continuously devising new methods to mislead Internet users. Staying alert and well-informed is more important than ever.
Scammers frequently employ strategies like creating a sense of urgency, impersonating authorities, or promising unrealistic rewards to trap unsuspecting victims. It’s important to be aware of the various types of scams that are prevalent, including phishing emails, lottery scams, and tech support frauds, among others. Each scam has its unique approach, but they all share the common goal of deceitfully obtaining personal information or money.
Learn more: How BCT can safeguard your business against scammers, viruses, malware, and more
How to Respond to Scams
Even the most cautious can sometimes fall prey to scammers. Knowing the right steps to take can help mitigate the damage and prevent future occurrences. Your awareness and actions can make a difference in the fight against online scams.
Immediate Action
- Report the Scam. Contact your bank, credit card company, the FTC, or relevant authorities immediately.
- Change Your Credentials. Update your passwords and security settings on affected accounts.
- Stay Informed. Regularly check for updates on scam trends and protection methods.
Learn more: How to safeguard your inbox from these dangerous cyberattacks
Best Practices to Stay Protected Online
Protecting yourself from online scams requires a proactive approach. By understanding and implementing key strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
- Secure Your Information. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Consider using login requirements like PIN codes. Disable automatic logins.
- Stay Updated. Ensure your operating system, software, browsers, and apps are up to date.
- Think Before You Click. Be cautious with links in emails or texts, especially from unknown sources. Disable hidden file extensions. Ignore unsolicited emails/messages.
- Verify Sources. Independently verify the authenticity of any requests for personal information.
- Shut Down & Shut Off. Cover webcams and power down computers when not in use.
Scams are an unfortunate reality if you wish to be a contender in today’s online business world. But they shouldn’t deter you from leveraging the internet to grow your business. With the right knowledge, vigilance, and security practices, you can protect your enterprise from the threats posed by online scams. By fostering a culture of security awareness within your team and implementing robust defense mechanisms, your business can navigate the digital world confidently and securely.
For more information on how to protect you and your business, contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.
BCT Consulting now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.
Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks
