Cybercrime is no longer limited to the dramatic scenarios depicted in movies. Instead, it often takes the form of subtle, manipulative tactics designed to exploit people’s trust and willingness to help.

In one recent case, an individual lost $30,000 not through carelessness or visiting unsafe websites, but simply by responding to what appeared to be a legitimate request. This is a common pattern: a text, email, or phone call arrives, appearing to come from a trusted source such as a bank, vendor, or even a supervisor. The message conveys urgency—there is a payment issue, login problem, or verification needed. In the effort to resolve the issue quickly, the recipient responds, clicks a link, or shares information. The result can be devastating: financial loss, compromised data, and a significant breach of trust.

The Golden Rule of Cyber Safety
If you did not initiate the interaction, do not trust it.

• Delete suspicious texts.

• Ignore unsolicited emails.

• Hang up on questionable phone calls.

• Verify requests directly through a trusted phone number or official website.

Why These Scams Work
Cybercriminals are skilled at using psychological tactics such as urgency, fear, and authority to pressure individuals into acting quickly. Ironically, the very qualities of responsiveness and helpfulness—valuable traits in professional and personal settings—are what make people more vulnerable to these schemes.

Awareness and vigilance are the most effective tools for prevention. By recognizing the warning signs, individuals and organizations can significantly reduce their risk.

Ten Best Practices for Cyber Safety

1. Hang Up on Suspicious Calls
   Government agencies and financial institutions will not call to demand immediate payment or personal information.

2. Be Skeptical of Urgent Emails
   Emails that demand immediate action or contain threats are often fraudulent. Verify requests through official channels before responding.

3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
   Create passwords with a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid personal details. Consider using a password manager.

4. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
   Adding a second verification step—such as a text message code—provides an additional layer of protection.

5. Pause Before Sending Money
   Requests for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency are almost always scams. Confirm legitimacy before proceeding.

6. Monitor Financial Accounts Regularly
   Review statements for unfamiliar charges and report anomalies promptly.

7. Maintain Updated Security Software
   Install and regularly update antivirus software to block malicious activity.

8. Participate in Cybersecurity Education
   Community organizations, libraries, and financial institutions often provide workshops on safe online practices.

9. Freeze Credit When Appropriate
   If new credit applications are not anticipated, freezing credit reports adds protection against identity theft.

10. Report Incidents Immediately
    Suspected fraud should be reported to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov and to financial institutions without delay.

Conclusion
Cybercrime thrives on urgency and trust. By approaching unexpected digital communications with caution and following established safety practices, individuals and organizations can protect themselves from financial and reputational harm.

 – Your OneDigital Team