To stay safe in 2024, everyone who has a computer or smartphone must abide by four guidelines. The US government has issued an official “New Year’s Resolutions” scam notice with that official advice. Cybercriminals use ever-more-advanced strategies to steal your personal information and separate you from your money.
However, the majority of scams have similar patterns, so you may stay safe by adhering to a few basic principles. Mark Majestic, an assistant commissioner at the Social Security Administration, advised people to make a resolution to safeguard themselves from scams that might harm their money and reputation in the coming year. Ring in 2024 with some smart resolutions to protect your personal information!
Here are the four guidelines by the US Government:
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Be Careful While Information Sharing
Phishing is a scam technique that is often used to trick people into thinking they are communicating with a reliable company. The first regulation from the government emphasizes how important it is to share information carefully.
Associate Commissioner of the Social Security Administration Mark Majestic cautions people to be wary of unsolicited calls purporting to represent banks, government institutions, or respectable businesses. It is essential to confirm the legality of such requests via proper means before sending personal information or money.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
The need for strong passwords and avoiding password reuse are emphasized in the second rule. Given that short, easy passwords may be easily hacked, the government advises people to use longer, more complicated password combinations.
The caution against using the same password twice draws attention to the chain reaction that happens when a hacker gets access to one account and may compromise several more. The suggestion to use password managers, like the one built into Google Chrome or iCloud Keychain for iPhones, provides a workable way to handle many passwords safely.
QR Code Vigilance
Scammers adapt as technology advances, and the government’s third rule deals with the growing risk posed by QR codes. Mark Majestic warns people about criminals’ exploitation of QR codes, which are becoming more common in places like restaurants and social media.
The development of fake QR codes in social media adverts to gather personal information is one example of the warning, as is the actual placing of phony codes on top of genuine ones. The government urges people to avoid reading random QR codes and to hold off from scanning any codes that seem changed or suspicious. An additional degree of protection can be added by having staff workers in public areas validate the authenticity of QR codes.
Social Media Protection
Because hackers frequently utilize information from social media platforms to customize their frauds, the final guideline emphasizes how important it is to secure social media profiles. It is suggested that users go through their buddy list regularly and delete any strange or questionable identities. Through the management of personal information on social media, individuals can lessen their vulnerability to targeted fraud.
Conclusion
The US government’s proactive approach to cybersecurity as we approach 2024 equips people with the knowledge and tools they need to defend themselves against changing cyber threats. The four guidelines—sharing information with safety, creating strong, one-of-a-kind passwords, being watchful of QR codes, and protecting social media accounts—provide a thorough framework for strengthening digital defenses.
People may go to the new year with confidence knowing they are better prepared to traverse the digital realm securely by using these habits. We at Scam Legit, always try to keep you safe from all types of scams. For more such amazing updates about the Scams of the USA, Do follow Scam Legit. Below are our social channels-
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