How to Protect Your Business from the Latest USB Scam
Cyber criminals are always coming up with new ways to scam us into handing over login details or sensitive data. But sometimes they go back to basics. The latest scam involves USB drives that are made to look like they’re from Microsoft. The packaging and branding on the drives are very convincing, but don’t be fooled! If you receive one of these drives in the mail, do not plug it into your computer. Doing so could give the scammers access to your system and allow them to steal sensitive information.
The packaging and branding of these scams make them appear legitimate, potentially tricking unsuspecting individuals into plugging the USB drive into their computer. It is important to remember that Microsoft or any other reputable company would never send unsolicited packages containing hardware for installation updates. If you receive a package like this, do not install any hardware or software without verifying its authenticity with the company it claims to be from. Otherwise, you risk giving cyber criminals access to your system and all of the personal information stored on it.
Whether it’s a flash drive that you received in the mail or a download link that was sent to your email, it’s important to stay vigilant when it comes to potential scams and viruses. If you receive a USB drive from an unexpected source, do not plug it in without double checking first. The same goes for any software or programs that you might be asked to install – unless it is directly requested by someone you know and trust, make sure to scan it with anti-virus software before proceeding. Having anti-virus protection installed on your computer can also help to catch any sneaky malware trying to sneak its way onto your system. Ultimately, being cautious and double checking before installing anything can go a long way in protecting yourself from online scams.
Anti-virus software is an important first line of defense against malware, but it’s not foolproof. The best way to protect yourself from online scams is to be cautious about what you download and install on your computer. If you’re not sure whether something is safe, err on the side of caution and don’t install it. If you need help deciding which anti-virus software to use or how to stay safe online, our team of experts can assist you. Get in touch today to learn more.