Current:Home > FinanceDon't let hackers fool you with a 'scam -ProfitEdge
Don't let hackers fool you with a 'scam
View
Date:2025-04-15 16:18:54
You're pulling your hair out, trying to fix something on your computer. You Google it and find what looks like a helpful website or a tutorial with easy step-by-step instructions.
Phew, you’re finally solving your problem, but hold up! You’ve just walked into a “scam-yourself” attack. Cybercreeps use this clever strategy to trick you into compromising your tech so they don’t have to do the dirty work.
How bad is it?
Bad. Reallybad. “Scam-yourself” attacks shot up 614% in the third quarter of this year alone. Lumma Stealer, the top data-stealing malware type that grabs banking info and browser extensions, spiked by 1,154%.
Why do these scams work so well? When something’s broken, our instinct is to rush and fix it as quickly as possible. Now, add to this the fact you’re going through the steps yourself so it feels like you’rein control. That’s exactly what makes these tricks so dangerous.
Holiday deals:Shop this season’s top products and sales curated by our editors.
Scammers are also shockingly good at mimicking trusted sources with professional-looking websites or tutorials, making it easy to believe you’re on safe ground. Add frustration and impatience to the mix, and it’s no wonder so many folks take the bait.
RELATED:How to spot a fake retail website before you buy
How they snag you
◾ Fake CAPTCHA:You verify (“I’m not a robot”), then you’re asked to download a README file for instructions. Those instructions install malware.◾ YouTube tutorials:You click a download link in the description of a YouTube video that promises to fix your tech issue. You guessed it! It’s malware in disguise.◾ ClickFix scams:You copy and paste commands into your computer while following a step-by-step guide. Oops … You’ve commanded it to obey its new hacker overlords.◾ Phony updates: Quick!A pop-up says you need to install a security update right now! It’s malware pretending to be your app, operating system, or browser.
RELATED:Another scammer is now rich
How to protect yourself
These scammers are savvy, but you can outsmart them.
◾ Think twice before downloading:If a tutorial tells you to turn off antivirus software or download a random link, bail. Rely on big names like Google, Apple and Microsoft that publish steps for help online … or, you know, me!
◾ Check URLs and sources:Cybercriminals mimic legitimate sites. Always double-check the web address, especially when you’re looking at updates or troubleshooting guides. If the URL feels off, trust your gut and close it.
◾ Be careful what you copy and paste:Never copy commands from unknown sources into your computer’s terminal or command prompt. That’s a classic malware delivery tactic.
◾ Update the right way:Don’t click random pop-ups to update your software. Always go through your device settings or the app store.
RELATED: Hackers have a sneaky trick to get you to click their fake links -See it in action
Let’s say the worst happens
Despite being careful, you fell for it. Don’t panic, just act fast to limit the damage:
◾ Run a virus scan:Use antivirus software you trust to detect and remove any malware installed on your device. The free stuff isn’t good enough anymore.
◾ Change your passwords:Update passwords for any accounts you suspect are compromised. Email and financial accounts should be your priority. And no password reusing! Every one should be unique. Yes, I know it’s a pain.
◾ Monitor your bank accounts:Keep an eye on your accounts for unauthorized charges or transactions. Notify your bank immediately if you see anything suspicious. I have the alerts in my banking app turned on so I get a buzz every time something out of the ordinary happens.
◾ Check for unusual activity:Look for strange logins or changes in your online accounts, too. Many sites and services have a section in the settings where you can see what devices are logged into your accounts and where they’re coming from.
◾ Reinstall your system if necessary:You may need to reset your device or reinstall your operating system. Steps here to complete a factory reset. Please, please back up your data first.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. Learn about all the latest technology on the Kim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website.
Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.
veryGood! (441)
Related
- A South Texas lawmaker’s 15
- Olivia Munn's Newsroom Costar Sam Waterston Played This Special Role in Her Wedding to John Mulaney
- Hawaii governor wants more legal advice before filling Senate vacancy
- Alec Baldwin's 'Rust' trial is underway: Live updates of the biggest revelations
- Elon Musk's skyrocketing net worth: He's the first person with over $400 billion
- Tennessee Army vet charged with murder, assault in attacks on 2 unhoused men
- Former ALF Child Star Benji Gregory Dead at 46
- The request for federal aid after Beryl opens rift between White House and Texas
- Kylie Jenner Shows Off Sweet Notes From Nieces Dream Kardashian & Chicago West
- Former President Barack Obama surprises at USA Basketball's 50th anniversary party
Ranking
- Military service academies see drop in reported sexual assaults after alarming surge
- Montana’s High Court Considers a Constitutional Right to a Stable Climate
- Ocasio-Cortez introduces impeachment articles against Supreme Court's Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito
- How many points did Bronny James score tonight? Lakers Summer League box score
- Current, future North Carolina governor’s challenge of power
- Get an Extra 60% Off J.Crew Sale Styles, 50% Off Sur La Table, 20% Off Paula's Choice Exfoliants & More
- U.S. men's soccer coach Gregg Berhalter fired after poor showing in Copa America
- Here’s how to watch Biden’s news conference as he tries to quiet doubts after his poor debate
Recommendation
Alex Murdaugh’s murder appeal cites biased clerk and prejudicial evidence
Wildfire risk rises as Western states dry out amid ongoing heat wave baking most of the US
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner's daughter Violet urges Los Angeles officials to oppose mask bans, says she developed post-viral condition
Report: NBA media rights deal finalized with ESPN, Amazon, NBC. What to know about megadeal
Former Syrian official arrested in California who oversaw prison charged with torture
Blake Lively Reveals the “Best Compliment” She’s Received in Her Life
All-Star rookie Shota Imanaga's historic first half helps Chicago Cubs battle the blahs
Ryan Reynolds Reveals His Favorite Taylor Swift Song—and You Won’t Be Disappointed