CYBERSECURITY experts have warned about the growing risk of cybercrime.
A Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) report revealed a shocking 10% increase in cybercrime complaints in 2023.
The losses from the 880,418 reported complaints totaled $12.5 billion.
To combat this alarming trend, security expert James Milin-Ashmore from Independent Advisor VPN outlined 10 key things you should never share online to improve your digital safety.
PHONE NUMBER
Posting your phone number opens the door to a variety of security threats.
Cybercriminals can use it to gather personal details and potentially steal your identity.
Phishing attacks, where scammers use deceptive messages to trick you into revealing sensitive information, also become a greater risk.
You’ll also likely be bombarded with unwanted marketing calls.
LOCATION
Sharing your address or current location online makes you vulnerable to theft, stalking, and malicious online activity.
This information can be used to personalize phishing attempts, making them more believable.
It can also help identity thieves build a detailed profile about you.
While your IP address doesn’t pinpoint your exact location, it reveals your general area – to add an extra layer of protection, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
HOLIDAY PLANS
Announcing your vacation on social media can be tempting, but it also lets criminals know that your home will be empty.
Wait to post about your trip until you’re safely back home.
It’s also wise to be cautious about accepting friend requests from strangers, as some burglars use social media platforms to target potential victims.
PASSWORDS
Passwords are the gatekeepers to your online accounts and sharing them online, no matter who asks, is a recipe for disaster.
Top tips on avoiding scams:
As scams become more sophisticated with the use of artificial intelligence, it is important you know how to spot a scam and how to avoid them.
- Be skeptical of online deals that seem too good to be true, especially on social media.
- Scammers will often use tactics to make you panicked so you make quick decisions – be cautious if you are told to take immediate action and verify who has contacted you.
- Chase Bank warns customers to “never return any unexpected funds without calling Chase first.”
- Never send money to someone you have only spoken to online or by phone as this is likely a romance scam.
- Unless you 100% know who you are talking to, never give someone remote access to your device.
- Never accept help from strangers at an ATM and always be vigilant when making withdrawals.
- Do not send money or click any links indicating that you have won a prize.
Source: Chase.com
Legitimate organizations will never request your password through social media or public channels.
Use unique and complex passwords for each online service, or consider using a reputable password manager app.
FINANCIAL OR EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
Financial details like credit card numbers and bank account details are goldmines for online fraudsters.
Sharing your employment information can also be risky, as it gives away details criminals can use for social engineering scams.
Be wary of anyone contacting you about work through unfamiliar channels and always verify their identity before sharing sensitive information.
ID DOCUMENTATION
Never post pictures of your passport, birth certificate, or driver’s license online.
This information is crucial for identity thieves who want to use it to open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, or commit other crimes in your name.
Be particularly cautious of online job scams that might ask for a copy of your ID.
NAMES OF LOVED ONES/PETS
Hackers often try to guess passwords using personal details like pet names or family members’ names.
These are also common answers to security questions.
Refrain from sharing such details online, and opt for more secure password recovery methods.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
Your medical history is private and should always be kept confidential.
Sharing details about the hospital you visit can lead to a data breach, exposing your personal information like name and address.
This information, in the wrong hands, can be used for identity theft.
TICKETS
Avoid posting pictures or details of tickets for concerts, events, or travel online.
Scammers can use this information to impersonate company representatives and trick you into revealing more personal data.
The same goes for online codes – if you post them online, someone else will quickly redeem them.
YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL INFORMATION
Sharing information about your child’s school puts them at risk from online predators and can also expose them to identity theft.
By being mindful of what you share online, you can improve your digital safety and protect yourself from cybercrime.
Alex Mitchell is your go-to expert for all things mobile. With a passion for the latest smartphones, apps, and mobile innovations, Alex provides in-depth reviews, insightful analyses, and breaking news about the ever-evolving world of mobile technology. Stay connected with Alex to navigate the fast-paced realm of mobile devices.
