Scams where fraudsters impersonate trusted entities or individuals, often known as “impersonation scams,” can be particularly convincing and damaging. These scams leverage the trust people have in familiar entities like banks, tech companies, or even friends and family. Here are some of the most common types of impersonation scams and tips on how to protect yourself:
1. Telephone Scams (Vishing)
Scammers impersonate bank officials, tax officers, or other authoritative figures over the phone. They might claim there’s an urgent problem with your account or taxes, insisting on immediate action, such as sharing personal information or making payments.
Protection:
- Verify Calls: Hang up and call the institution directly using a verified number from their official website.
- Guard Personal Information: Never share personal details like passwords, PINs, or Social Security numbers over the phone.
2. Email Scams (Phishing)
Emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, such as your bank, a popular service, or a coworker, asking you to click on a link or download an attachment, which could lead to malware installation or the harvesting of personal information.
Protection:
- Check Email Addresses: Look for slight alterations in the domain name and spelling errors.
- Avoid Links and Attachments: Don’t click on links or download attachments from unknown or unsolicited emails. Instead, go directly to the service’s website by typing the URL yourself.
3. Text Message Scams (Smishing)
Similar to email phishing, but done through SMS. These messages may prompt you to click a link to update your personal information or claim a prize.
Protection:
- Scrutinize Links: Before clicking any link, check for odd phrasing or urgency. When in doubt, contact the supposed sender using a known and trusted method.
- Report Spam: Use your phone’s features or third-party apps to report and block spam messages.
4. Social Media Impersonation
Scammers might create fake profiles imitating your friends or public figures, then message you asking for money or personal information.
Protection:
- Verify Friend Requests: Double-check friend requests and messages from friends claiming to be in trouble. Call or meet them to confirm.
- Secure Your Account: Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
5. Technical Support Scams
You might receive unsolicited calls or pop-ups claiming that your computer is infected with a virus, and offering “technical support.” This scam often involves gaining remote access to your computer or selling useless software.
Protection:
- Reject Unsolicited Calls: Legitimate companies do not contact customers this way for technical support.
- Use Reliable Tech Services: Always use known and trusted service providers and avoid third-party links or phone numbers.
General Tips
- Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about common scam tactics and share this knowledge with friends and family.
- Use Security Software: Install and keep updated antivirus software.
- Monitor Financial Statements: Regularly check your bank statements and accounts for unauthorized transactions.
Awareness and caution are your best defenses against these increasingly sophisticated scams. If something feels off, it often is, so trust your instincts and double-check before proceeding in any situation that involves your personal information or finances.