Jake Moore, a cyber crime expert with 13 years of experience, has seen the tricks scammers use to hack into accounts like WhatsApp. With online fraud in the UK doubling in 2023, costing £2.3bn, and cases of romance scams and ID theft on the rise, it’s more important than ever to stay vigilant.
Recently, senior Conservative MP William Wragg fell victim to a targeted online scam, highlighting the need for increased awareness of security risks. Moore advises that simple daily habits can help protect against these ever-evolving threats.
One key tip Moore shares is to avoid sending SMS texts, as they are vulnerable to hacking. Instead, he recommends using encrypted messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Signal. By agreeing to regular updates on your phone and computer, you can stay ahead of potential vulnerabilities that hackers may exploit.
Moore also cautions against downloading apps like TikTok, which may pose privacy risks due to data collection practices. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of using a password manager to create unique passwords for each account and keeping webcams covered to prevent unauthorized access.
By following these tips and staying informed about cybersecurity best practices, individuals can better protect themselves from fraud and online threats.