Just when you thought phone scams couldn’t get any more sophisticated, there’s another one to watch out for.
And this is even more sophisticated. Because this is the government agency that will be reporting this type of fraud. F.T.C. – Spoofing is occurring.
woman on the phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
One reason this spoofing is on the rise is advances in artificial intelligence.
A.I. Narration tools and deepfake technology It makes it easier for imposters to commit crimes. But you can protect yourself. Here’s what you need to know:
What is FTC impersonation fraud?
like Phishing scam, FTC impersonation scams involve scammers posing as Federal Trade Commission employees calling your phone number and trying to convince you to send money. These scammers have become very sophisticated in how they target their victims.
beginning, they may impersonate FTC phone number. When your phone rings, you’ll see your caller ID and a job title associated with the FTC or government agency.
Next, Scammers may impersonate actual FTC employees. So if you ask for her name to see if it’s a scam (which you should do!), a quick search on the internet will bring up her actual FTC official. When checking to see if this is an actual scam, some victims may not think twice after confirming this.
finally, They will say they owe you money. It’s not clear exactly what they’re saying, perhaps they’re saying they owe a bill, debt, or fine, but some scammers also offer other special services such as: They may even instruct you to send money in a different way. Bitcoin ATM Or withdraw cash and pay directly.
These scams have been successful, with the median loss per call rising to $7,000 this year.
Scammers are using fake news and malicious links to lure you into emotional Facebook phishing traps
man on the phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Read more: How scammers use AI tools to file perfect tax returns in your name
What are the FTC and FBI doing about it?
Today, the FTC is uncovering these scams, warning and educating the public, and cracking down on perpetrators.
First, the FTC stated: press release “We will never send consumers to a Bitcoin ATM, tell them to go buy gold bars, or ask them to withdraw cash and give it directly to someone.” The agency added: “We will never contact consumers to solicit money, threaten arrest or deportation, or promise prizes.”
Second, due to the public backlash against AI and the increasing number of complaints to the FBI, FTC is working with the government He proposed tough legislation to ban government fraud and identity fraud, while leveraging tools to “discover, deter, and catch these imposters,” which would “enforce fraudsters to make money they earn from the government.” “Allows the FTC to bring suit directly in federal court for the purpose of forcing the repayment of “or business impersonation fraud.” ”
How to keep yourself safe
1. Stay informed: The first step to protecting yourself from government impersonation scams is to become educated about it. Stay up to date on these and other scams by reading the news and subscribing to sites like Cyberguy. Again, the FTC reports that the FTC will never call you in any way or form to ask you to send money, so don’t worry if the FTC or any other government agency calls you asking for this. If so, it’s a scam.
However, based on this, reports of online crime have increased by 22% compared to 2022. FBI’s 2023 Internet Crime Reportthey suggest other strategies to protect yourself from scams by following the tips listed below.
2. calm down please: If you think it’s a call from a scammer, it’s important to remain calm and not get emotional. It’s easy to get very excited when you’re in the middle of a situation like this. If this happens, you can always say you’ll get back to them and hang up. If they become aggressive and try to exploit you, tell them you will report them and hang up.
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3. Notes: Do not contact unknown phone numbers provided in pop-ups, text messages, or emails.
Four. Safety precautions: Do not download software at the request of unknown individuals who contact you.
Five. Security precautions: Do not allow strangers to access your computer.
6. Don’t click on that link. Do not click on unsolicited pop-ups on your computer, or links sent via text message or email links or attachments.
7. Use good antivirus software: As fraudsters weaponize AI and deepfake technology, robust antivirus software is your first line of defense. The best way to protect yourself from clicking on malicious links that install malware that can access your personal information is to install antivirus protection on all your devices. This can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2024 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
woman on the phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
More information: How iPhone security flaws can lock you out
Cart important points
Scammers will continue to find new ways to prey on their victims, and AI has made it easier. One of the main concerns about AI is that it will advance faster than agencies like the FTC and FBI can keep up with. Therefore, it is important to take steps to protect yourself and avoid becoming a victim.
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