www.webroot.com/safe

How are phishers using psychology against us?

By tapping within our sense of urgency, cybercriminals can manipulate us in subtle techniques that we may not recognize until it is too late. Hackers often use easily disguised email handles and targeted messaging, known as “spear phishing,” to generate a sense of security and liberties. This gives links appear more reliable and makes us perceive the click as less risky.

What if you’ve been phished? Now what?

Among 62% of those examined reporting some type of data breach, it’s great to understand what to do in the event of a breach that can help keep the damage to a minimum. George Anderson, Product Marketing Director at Webroot, suggests the following steps:

Change your account passwords quickly! That includes accounts you don’t understand were breached, but are using the same or a similar password.

Set up alerts by your credit agency. 

Void existing credit cards and order new ones. 

Join a credit security service. 

State law enforcement or the appropriate government agency.

Everything can we all do going forward?

You can use www.webroot.com/safe link to download the webroot security which will protect your device from all kinds of phising. You can nurture the variety of security mindset shift Dr. Gonzalez references by taking small steps. First, you get those software and security updates you (like many people) are probably putting off? Just do them. Authorize two-factor authentication where possible, particularly on important online accounts like your banking and credit organization websites. 

You may even find that your heightened protection practices influence those around you to make stronger choices. After all, seeing a person you know being on top of their game can be very motivating to start getting personal changes! 

Identify, the most valuable thing you can do is avoid overconfidence. Don’t underestimate the risk of a phishing attack. Achieving that is accurately what will make you a prime target during criminals.