Protect Yourself From Online Fraud
16 October, 2024
Fraud is on the rise in Ireland, with over 324,000 fraudulent transactions reported by the Banking Payments Federation of Ireland in 2022 alone. To keep yourself safe, it is essential to stay up-to-date on the latest scams and know how to protect your personal information. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common fraud tactics and offer practical tips on how to guard against them.
Online Shopping Safety Tips
Online shopping can be convenient, but it also comes with risks. Look out for these red flags to keep your financial details safe:
- Copycat Websites: Make sure you’re shopping on legitimate sites and not look-alike ones that can trick you.
- Pop-up Prizes or Virus Alerts: Avoid clicking on pop-ups claiming you have won a prize or that your device has a virus.
- Encryption Certificates: Always check for the padlock icon in the address bar, indicating the site is secure.
- Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals: If the discounts or offers seem unrealistic, trust your instincts and stay away.
- No Reviews: Be cautious of sites that do not have customer reviews or feedback.
Phishing, Vishing, and Smishing: Recognise the Signs
Scammers often use these methods to trick you into giving away personal information:
- Phishing: Beware of emails that pretend to be from reputable companies, asking you to click on suspicious links.
- Vishing: Be alert to phone calls claiming to be from trusted institutions requesting personal details or security codes.
- Smishing: Avoid clicking on links in text messages that create a sense of urgency and mimic legitimate websites.
Watch Out for Investment Scams
Investment scams are designed to lure you with the promise of fast profits. Be wary of:
- False Investment Offers: Stay away from schemes that guarantee large returns in a short amount of time.
- Cryptocurrency Scams: Be sceptical of unsolicited offers to invest in cryptocurrencies, stocks, or bonds.
Family Impersonation Scams
A growing trend involves fraudsters pretending to be a family member in distress:
- WhatsApp Scams: If you get a message from someone claiming to be a relative in need of money, double-check their identity.
- Changing Numbers: Always confirm with your family member directly if you receive a message saying they have changed their phone number.
Stay Alert and Stay Safe
Knowledge is your best defense against fraud. By understanding these common tactics and taking the necessary precautions, you can better protect yourself in today’s digital world. Staying informed and vigilant is the key to navigating the online landscape securely and keeping your hard-earned money safe from scammers.
Remember: If something seems off, trust your instincts and verify before taking any action.
If you suspect any fraudulent activity or notice anything unusual with your account, please get in touch with us right away. Our team at CANA Credit Union is here to help and guide you through the steps to secure your information. You can reach us by phone, email, or by visiting our office.
Tel: 01 676 6151
Email: info@canacu.ie
