Protect Yourself Online

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month

Your personal and financial information is valuable so keep it safe at all times! Cybercriminals use a variety of tactics to deceive people, including emails, phone calls, text messages and fake websites.

Fraudulent messages often contain urgent or unusual requests such as asking for payments or login details or other confidential information.

Here are some simple steps below to help you protect yourself from online fraud:

1. Delete suspicious Messages: Never click on links or open attachments in unexpected or unusual emails or text messages, even if they appear to come from someone you know.
2. Avoid social media scams: Do not click on links or pop-up ads in social media post.  Instead, type the website address directly into your browser.
3. Use strong passwords: Create unique passwords with a mixture of letters, numbers and symbols.
4. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security and protection to your account.
5. Limit personal Information sharing: Avoid posting sensitive details or information on social media or public platforms.
6. Keep your device updated: Regularly update your operating system and antivirus software to protect against vulnerabilities.
7. Be cautious with public Wi-Fi: Avoid making payment over public Networks.  Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data.
8. Monitor your accounts: Check your bank, credit card, and other online accounts regularly for unauthorized or suspicious activity. Report anything suspicious immediately.
9. Shop safely online: Only buy from trusted retailers, Use tools like Scamchecker.ie from FraudSmart to verify websites before making purchases.  Click here for more info  https://fraudsmart.scamchecker.ie/

Simple actions help you stay one step ahead of the scammers!

For more information on scams, visit www.fraudsmart.ie.