DO NOT CLICK ON THAT LINK!

Cybercrime – perhaps the fastest growing crime!  More and more criminals are exploiting the speed, convenience and anonymity of the Internet to commit a diverse range of criminal activities that know no borders, either physical or virtual. Scams can cost people a lot of money and cause a great deal of distress.

Phishing, Vishing and SMishing are all methods of deceitfully obtaining personal information such as passwords, ID numbers and bank card details by tricking clients into believing that they are from trusted sources, such as banks or legitimate companies.

The simple tips below will help you protect yourself and your family from fraud and scams.

DO NOT tap on links in SMSs or emails.

NEVER be pressured into making quick financial decisions when contacted telephonically. Hang up, call your bank using the number in your banking app or visit a branch. Fraudsters often present themselves as bank staff and simulate call center environments and procedures.  Check your banking app for verified details.

Use strong passwords: Make them more complicated by combining letters, numbers, special characters and change them regularly.

Network loss:  Call your bank immediately if you suspect you have been SIM-swapped or if your account has been compromised.  Should your device lose connectivity and does not return post reboot, contact your service provider for assistance immediately.

Avoid being scammed:  Always think before you click on a link or file of unknown origin. Do not feel pressured by any emails. Check the source of the message. When in doubt, verify the source. Never reply to emails that ask you to verify your information or confirm your user ID or password.

Never share your banking login details: Not with anyone.  Your bank will never contact you and ask you to disclose your password or PIN.

Keep your login details offline:  Never store any of your account details, PINs or passwords on your cell phone or other devices.

Call the right person for help: Do not panic! If you are a victim, if you encounter illegal Internet content, for example, child exploitation, or if you suspect a computer crime, identity theft or a commercial scam, report this at your local police station. If you need help with maintenance or software installation on your computer, contact your service provider or a certified computer technician.

Sources: www.saps.gov.za & www.fnb.co.za