Fraudsters are trying to deceive users to both use and sell credit card information. ESET experts have made recommendations to users on how to protect their credit card information regarding this growing problem.
Be on your guard: Never reply to spam emails, click links in them, or open their attachments. They may be decoy malware, or they may redirect you to legitimate-looking phishing pages that encourage you to enter your information.
Do not give out any of your information over the phone, even if the person on the other end of the phone sounds convincing. Ask where they're calling from, and then call that agency for confirmation. However, do not call the contact number they gave you for confirmation.
Do not access the Internet on public Wi-Fi connections without using a virtual private network. Even if you need to, do not make transactions such as online shopping that requires you to enter your card information while using these links.
Although it will save you time on your next visits, do not save your card information on online shopping sites and other sites. This will reduce the chance of your card information being stolen if that company's data is breached or your account is compromised.
Download an antivirus program, including anti-phishing, from a reputable security provider for all your laptops and gadgets (phones and tablets, etc.).
Use two-factor authentication on all your sensitive accounts. This makes it less likely for hackers to crack open your accounts with stolen/phishing passwords.
Only download apps from legitimate marketplaces (Apple App Store and Google Play).
If you're shopping online, choose websites that use HTTPS only (with a lock in the browser address bar next to the URL). This means that data is less likely to be compromised.
It's also good practice to keep an eye on all your bank and card accounts. If you spot any suspicious activity, report it to your bank/card service provider's fraud team immediately.
Be the first to comment