BBB shares cybersecurity tips during Cybersecurity Awareness Month
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
ST. LOUIS, Mo., (KBSI) — The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is encouraging consumers to strengthen their online safety habits during Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
Scams and fraud increasingly begin online, making good cyber hygiene more important than ever. According to BBB’s 2024 Scam Tracker Risk Report, 61.2% of scams originated online, and those scams were more likely to result in financial losses than those conducted in person or by phone.
Common threats include unsolicited online messages, suspicious links, and fraudulent social media ads. Phishing scams rose from No. 7 to No. 6 on BBB’s list of riskiest scams in 2024, as criminals use artificial intelligence to craft more convincing messages.
“In our increasingly digital lives, there’s no guarantee you can avoid cybercrime completely, but you have the power to protect yourself as much as possible,” said Michelle L. Corey, BBB St. Louis president and CEO. “A few smart daily habits can go a long way toward securing your data and devices.”
BBB’s Cybersecurity Tips
Use strong passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across accounts. Update them regularly and use two-factor authentication when available.
Use a password manager: These tools help create, store, and manage strong passwords while alerting users to possible data breaches.
Think before you click: Avoid clicking suspicious links or attachments, even if they appear to come from someone you know.
Install updates: Keep your operating systems, software, and connected devices current with the latest updates and security patches.
Protect your devices: Use reputable antivirus software and verify any customer support requests before granting remote access.
Secure your phone: Delete unused apps and ensure your mobile device software is up to date.
Check privacy settings: Review social media accounts and limit what information is public.
Guard personal information: Read privacy policies carefully to understand how your data is used.
Talk to your family: Discuss online safety with children and older adults. Consider setting up parental controls or a family “safe word” to prevent impersonation scams.
Report cybercrime: Victims can report scams through BBB Scam Tracker or the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
BBB reminds consumers that resources to help recover from scams are available at BBB | Better Business Bureau.
