Smartphone Safety for Elderly

Ever got a call or text from someone asking for money urgently, assuring you to return later? Ever fallen into the online scam trap? If you don’t know what that means, continue reading, for this could save you from future scams and frauds.

The online working culture has led to an increase in online scams as now people use their phones more than ever. Unfortunately, scammers have left no stone unturned in making the best of this situation.

Studies have recorded a sudden increase in use complaints as scammers and fraudsters look to take advantage of the present scenario where everyone is so involved in the world of phones. There are certainly a few things that you can do to protect yourself from online frauds and scams.

But, before that, it is even more important to see against what you need to protect yourself.

What Promotes Smartphone Scams?

Fraud Apps

Are you looking for apps to transfer money or to get groceries delivered? Beware of the fraudsters! These scammers and fraudsters are smart enough to trick innocent people who would fill in the demanded information at the time of urgent need. But, here’s a warning for you!

Don’t fill in personal information that might not be related to the service you are opting for. Some fake apps might tempt you to locate the nearest doctor for free, but don’t download it without researching as downloading a phony app can attack your phone with a ransomware virus.

Phishing Scams

Scammers tempt users into providing them your personal information. With technology being so advanced, making phishing calls have become quite an easy task for scammers. A few scams have been recorded where scammers offer medical treatments or free medical kits once you fill in the required information. Some other apps might attack your emotional side, presenting a suffering child, and asking for charity for an emergency case.

Don’t fall for the scams and protect your personal information.

Risky Text Messages

SMS Phishing continues to be one of the popular ways to attack mobile users with scams and frauds. In short message service phishing, scammers send text messages rather than emails and request the receiver to click on the link provided, leading to personal information theft.

Do not respond to text messages that request your personal information. Protect yourself by not clicking on uncertain links as it might auto-download hacker apps.

Unusual Payment Requests

Everything the scammers need from you is money. They will often ask you to use an unusual payment method, including gift cards, various unusual digital modes of payment, to trick you into sending them the requested amounts.

Such payment requests should be cross-checked before completing in order to protect yourself from falling into the scam trap.

Fake Calls for Software Updates & Protection

Scammers often find new ways to attack people’s personal information. They will ask you to switch on your computer or a smartphone to install free software or fix a problem. Do not fall for such calls as it could be fake calls to steal your personal details and passwords.

Protect your money, passwords, and personal information as the scammers will use various means to extort money from those they think are falling into the trap.

How to Identify & Protect Yourself Against Such Scams?

Scammers will go to any extent to trick you into giving them your personal details and other information. But there are several measures you can take to keep yourself protected.

Protect your computer and smartphone with a secured software.
Set multi-step verification for your personal accounts.
Put your phone to auto-software update to gain protection from software scams.
Back-up your data regularly to prevent online data robbery.
Do thorough research before downloading an app or software. Check for reviews and authenticity.

What to do if you are a victim of the scam?

Cross-check your online security. Change passwords of all personal accounts immediately.
Update PIN numbers and change your phone numbers; opt for multi-step verification.
Call your financial institution immediately if you have sent some money or your personal information to the scammers.
Report to Cyber Cell or lodge an FIR immediately.
To register a complaint with NCH, call at 1800-11-4000 or 14404; you can also send SMS at 8130009809.

Stay protected from scams and frauds. Let them know you are smart. Don’t fall for such scams.