Criminal activity has become increasingly technology-based, so it’s a very good idea to educate yourself on how to keep your money safe
Have you ever received a text or whats app message, email or phone call for someone looking for your bank or card details and deep down something about it doesn’t feel right? Or maybe everything seemed fine until your credit card bill went through the roof? These seemingly innocent messages inform you that you’re owed money or due a refund, or offer to make your computer or account more secure.
Phishing explained
Unsuspecting people who follow through on such messages by divulging information, or click on a link and enter the requested details, are victims of ‘phishing’. Phishing is a play on the word fishing and refers to criminals luring unsuspecting customers with bait – usually a promise of money – in exchange for personal/financial details. These scams are often highly credible, such as people receiving emails that appear to come from their bank asking them to confirm banking details. A lot of customers end up handing over their log in details to crooks. Phishing scams have evolved in a very sophisticated way from the obvious spam emails telling you that you’ve won the Spanish Lottery, or that the crown prince of a foreign country wants to transfer thousands into your bank account.
Read our full article on how to identify phone and internet phishing scams.