New Computer Fraud Mimics Human Verification Tests

In today’s digital age, scams and fraud are becoming more sophisticated.

One of the latest threats: Fake websites or even Legitimate Websites that have been compromised mimics the "verify your are human" tests like CAPTCHA and tricks you into performing a series of keyboard strikes that grant access to your device and everything in it. An example, such as: Win + R -> CTRL + V -> Enter

There is still the Pop-ups scam, claiming your computer is at risk and needs immediate attention. By clicking on these pop-ups, you might inadvertently download malicious software that can hack your computer and grant hackers access to all your private information. Legitimate software companies usually do not use aggressive pop-ups to get your attention. Additionally, check for poor grammar or spelling mistakes in these messages, as they can hint that the source is likely untrustworthy.

Moreover, if any alert demands immediate action or payment to fix an issue, consider it a significant red flag. Be especially wary of messages that ask you to call a phone number, as the fraudsters may attempt to extract sensitive information from you over the phone.

Always remember to verify the source before responding to any alerts. A simple web search can often reveal whether other users have reported similar experiences related to that alert.

Protecting Yourself Against Computer Fraud

The key to staying protected in this digital landscape is being proactive. Here are a few tips to safeguard your information:

• Install Reliable Security Software: Make sure your computer has reputable antivirus software that can detect and block threats.

• Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system and installed applications to patch any security vulnerabilities.

• Backup Your Data: Regularly back up your important files. In case of a malware attack, you can restore your data without hassle.

• Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scam trends. The more you know, the harder it will be for scammers to trick you.

• Regularly Check your Credit Report for unusual activity, such as an account you didn’t open.