1. Cyber Security Awareness Month
October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month – a great time to remind ourselves just how much of our lives take place online and the potential threats that exist in the digital world. Any device that stores information or connects to the internet could become a target for cybercriminals seeking to steal your data.
Here are four important ways to help stay safe online:
- Strong passwords – Have a unique and strong password for each online account.
- Multi-factor authentication – Turn on this extra security step when available. Multi-factor authentication is a second way beyond your username and password to verify it’s you accessing your account or device.
- Software updates – Consider turning on automatic software updates to keep your devices up-to-date and secure.
- Don't click on links - Avoid clicking on links from emails, texts, and online ads. Type web addresses into your browser to ensure you aren’t sent to a fraudulent copycat site, and only visit sites you know and trust.
2. AARP Scam-Tracking Map Update
When it comes to fraud, knowledge is power. But how can we spread that knowledge so more people are empowered to protect themselves?
One great way to report what you’ve experienced is through the AARP Scam-Tracking Map (
www.aarp.org/scammap). The map shows scams that people experience every day, and it also includes warnings from law enforcement. You can submit scams you’ve encountered and explore what’s being reported in your area.
Staying informed has never been easier; the AARP Scam-Tracking Map is freshly updated, with improved searchability features, a more user-friendly interface, and best of all, it is now accessible from any mobile device!
3. Medicare Open Enrollment Scams
It’s open enrollment season, which also means it’s Medicare fraud season. Eligible beneficiaries have from October 15–December 7 to shop around and make changes to their Medicare health and Part D prescription drug plans. Unfortunately, some of the deals offered won’t be deals at all.
Just like in other years, Medicare scams spike during open enrollment season with criminals posing as insurance providers calling and emailing about free gifts or limited-time offers. These scams are all designed to steal your money, Medicare information, or your identity.
Be suspicious and don’t share sensitive personal information with anyone who calls, emails, or visits you out of the blue promoting a Medicare plan. Legitimate Medicare plans can only contact you if you’ve requested information or if you have an existing relationship with them. Beneficiaries can safely compare legitimate plans and change enrollment by going to
medicare.gov or by calling
800-633-4227.
4. Tech-Support Scams
Tech support is calling – but should you answer? One might think that a crime like the tech support scam, which has been around for over 15 years, might fade away, but it is more common than ever.
These scams start with an unsolicited phone call or a pop-up alert on your device, claiming to be from Microsoft, Norton, or another related company warning of grave problems. The goal is to persuade you to grant remote access to your device, after which they’ll claim to find something terrible. In reality, these criminals are likely trying to install malware, which enables them to steal personal information and account logins. They may also pressure you into paying for expensive (and fake) repairs or protection services.
If you receive an urgent phone call or a sudden, alarming pop-up, it’s almost certainly a scam. Don’t engage, and to rid your screen of the message, exit out of your browser or restart your device. Keeping your operating systems and security software up to date is an important way to keep real viruses and malware out.
