How do you protect yourself from Cyber fraud?
61% of 52974 cybercrime cases registered as per NCRB in 2021 are related to fraud, 8.6% related to sexual exploitation, 4.5% are related to extortion.
Protecting yourself from cyber fraud is essential to safeguard your personal and financial information. Here are some key steps to protect yourself from cyber fraud:
1
Be cautious with personal information
Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, such as your social security number, bank account details, or Aadhaar card information, unless you have verified the legitimacy and security of the request. Be wary of unsolicited requests for personal information through emails, messages, or phone calls.
Learn more about protecting your privacy on Social media
2
Use strong and unique passwords
Create strong, complex passwords for your online accounts, and avoid reusing passwords across multiple platforms. Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your passwords.
3
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Enable 2FA or multi-factor authentication whenever available. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.
4
Be cautious with email and messages
Exercise caution when opening emails or messages, especially those from unknown senders or containing suspicious attachments or links. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unverified sources. Use antivirus products to protect your devices from malicious files
5
Verify websites and secure connections
When providing personal or financial information online, ensure you are using secure websites (look for “https://” and a padlock icon in the address bar). Be cautious with websites that seem suspicious or mimic legitimate sites.
6
Stay updated on scams and fraud techniques
Stay informed about the latest scams and fraud techniques. Be aware of common types of cyber fraud, such as phishing, identity theft, and advance fee fraud. Regularly check credible sources, such as official government websites or cybersecurity organizations, for information on emerging threats.
7
Be cautious with online transactions
When making online purchases or conducting financial transactions, use secure and reputable platforms. Avoid entering personal information or payment details on unsecured or suspicious websites
8
Monitor your financial accounts
Regularly review your bank statements, credit card transactions, and other financial accounts for any unauthorized or suspicious activity. Report any discrepancies to your financial institution immediately
9
Report incidents
If you encounter any cyber fraud or suspect fraudulent activity, report it to the appropriate authorities.
Learn more about reporting fraudulent transactions on your bank account
Contact your local law enforcement agency and consider reporting the incident to organizations like the Cyber Crime Cell or CERT-In (Computer Emergency Response Team of India).
By following these proactive steps and maintaining a vigilant mindset, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyber fraud and protect your personal and financial information.