The recent case of the Bengaluru lawyer who lost Rs 15 lakh to a FedEx scam highlights the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals.
They use fear and urgency to pressure victims into surrendering money and personal information.
Here’s how to stay safe and what cyber insurance can offer:
Common Scam Tactics:
Impersonation: Scammers pretend to be legitimate organizations like FedEx, law enforcement, or banks.
Phishing: You receive calls, emails, or texts urging immediate action, often with threats of legal trouble or financial loss.
Scare Tactics: They create a sense of urgency or crisis to cloud your judgment.
Intimidation: They may threaten arrest, exposure of personal information, or harm to you or your loved ones.
How to Protect Yourself:
Don’t trust unsolicited calls or emails: Never give out personal information or click on links in suspicious messages.
Verify communication: Contact the real organization directly using a trusted phone number or website (not the one provided in the message).
Be wary of urgency: Legitimate organizations won’t pressure you into immediate action.
Stay informed: Learn about common scams and how they work.
Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
How Cyber Insurance Can Help:
While vigilance is key, cyber insurance offers an extra layer of protection:
Financial Reimbursement: It can cover stolen funds, legal fees, and other financial losses as a result of cybercrime.
Data Recovery: It can help recover lost or corrupted data.
Credit Monitoring: It can help monitor your credit for fraudulent activity.
Cybersecurity Experts: Some plans provide access to cybersecurity professionals who can guide you through recovery and improve your defenses.
Don’t wait until you’re a victim. Educate yourself, practice safe online habits, and consider cyber insurance for added peace of mind.