Sunday, 24 November 2024

Stay Safe On-line

 

IT training session, 31 October 2024 with Lucy Walsh of AbilityNet

 


Stay Safe On-line


After a quick overview of useful aspects of devices, Lucy told us about a range of on-line scams and gave pointers for dealing with them, e.g.

  • Anything official will be addressed to you by name, so check

  • Don’t click on any links

  • Family impersonation scams – ask them a question that only your family members could answer

  • Don’t allow remote access 

  • On suspected fake websites look for the s on https in the address line and the padlock sign

  • Beware fake rewards and prizes, also

  • Fake endorsements by well-known people or celebrities e.g. by Martin Lewis

  • Download and use a parking app as it is very easy for scammers to stick a false QR code onto the front of a parking meter


Specific types of scams mentioned included romance scams, pet scams and energy scams. 

People fall for scams for two main reasons:

Fear of losing out (re special offers)

Fear of problems / retribution if you don’t do what they suggest.


In summary, if someone has approached you and you find yourself with your phone / device in one hand and your credit card in the other hand, put one down and think again!

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