2024 has been a year of evolving cyber threats, with fraudsters employing increasingly sophisticated tactics to exploit businesses and individuals alike. As a technology and cyber security provider, Neuways urges business leaders to understand the implications of these scams and the importance of maintaining strict boundaries between personal and professional device use. Here’s a look at some of the most prevalent scams of the year and how you can protect your organisation.
Deepfake Videos
High-profile figures have been impersonated in deepfake videos promoting fake investments. Using AI, cyber criminals manipulate videos and clone voices to create seemingly authentic endorsements. Businesses must educate employees about verifying the legitimacy of any promotional content and avoiding risky links or websites.
Fake Customer Service Accounts
Fraudsters continue to impersonate customer service representatives on social media platforms. By targeting disgruntled customers, hackers intercept conversations, posing as representatives of major brands to extract sensitive information. Encourage employees to verify official accounts before engaging, especially if using work devices for browsing.
Copycat Websites
Scam websites now mirror legitimate brands with professional designs and branding. High-profile examples this year included fraudulent sites mimicking Wilko’s during its closure. These phishing sites harvest personal details for future scams. Encourage your team to be vigilant, check web addresses, and rely only on trusted links.
QR Code Scams
QR codes have become a convenient tool for cyber criminals, appearing on tampered parking meters or embedded in phishing emails. Scanning these codes can lead to malware infections or unauthorised subscriptions. Businesses should train employees to avoid scanning unknown QR codes, particularly on work devices, and to stick to official app stores. This is known as Quishing and has been an incredibly prevalent type of cyber attack throughout 2024.
WhatsApp and Messaging Scams
From fake messages to fraudulent job offers, WhatsApp remains a popular platform for scams. These messages often use emotional manipulation to trick victims into sharing sensitive information or transferring funds. Employees should be cautious when using messaging apps, especially on company-owned devices, and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Ticket and Job Fraud
Fraudsters have targeted job seekers with scams involving fake job offers. Victims are often lured into sharing personal details or making payments. Implementing strict security policies and educating staff about these schemes is essential.
Why It Matters for Your Business
While many scams appear to target individuals, the repercussions can extend to businesses, particularly when employees use work devices for personal activities. Cyber Criminals often exploit personal browsing habits to gain access to sensitive company data, resulting in financial and reputational damage.
At Neuways, we recommend the following measures to safeguard your business:
- Restrict Personal Use of Work Devices: Establish clear policies to separate professional and personal device usage.
- Educate Your Team: Regular training on recognising and avoiding scams is crucial.
- Implement Cyber Security Solutions: Ensure robust endpoint protection, regular updates, and monitoring systems are in place.
- Encourage Vigilance: Foster a culture of caution where employees feel empowered to report suspicious activity.
By taking these steps, you can protect your organisation from the ripple effects of scams and ensure a safer working environment. For more tailored advice on enhancing your cyber defences, contact Neuways today.
