We are certain you have seen those emails from a Nigerian Prince, or maybe something as common or basic as checking a Word doc attachment.
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If you find yourself skeptic of a phishing email, we encourage you to report dangerous phishing scams to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). This website represents a collaborative effort between the FBI and the National White-Collar Crime Center (NWC3). The IC3 assists consumers by serving as a means to receive internet-related criminal complaints and to research, develop, and refer the criminal complaints to applicable federal, state, local, or international law enforcement and/or regulatory agencies. IC3 accepts online internet crime complaints from either the victim or from a knowledgeable third party.
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A few other things you can do to protect yourself and recommend the following:
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1. Passwords-
Use strong passwords by making them unique and complex. Regularly change passwords. Do not use the same password for all accounts.
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2. Email Security-
Do not open any suspicious emails, click on any links, or open any attachments; delete these emails.
Clean out your email account on a regular basis. Use encrypted emails when sending sensitive or confidential information.
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3. Wireless Use Security-
Use encrypted wireless for work matters. Stay away from free/unsecured Wi-Fi (i.e., coffee shops, hotels, libraries, restaurants).
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4. Use of Electronic Devices-
Lock your screen or log out when you walk away from your device to prevent unauthorized access.
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5. Software-
Antivirus and firewall software should be regularly monitored and updated. Data should be backed up on several different platforms.
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6. Record Keeping/Disposal-
Purge and/or shred any and all documents that contain personal information such as account numbers, driver’s license number, social security number, credit card, debit card numbers, etc.