Cybersecurity Month 2021: The biggest scam aimed at your wallet

Chicago (WLS)-Here are some quick tips on fraud and financial crimes that have hit Chicago citizens.

The cloud security group Feedzai conducted a financial crime report and said it found a 56% increase in these types of fraud in Chicago.

The report ranked Chicago as the 7th most dangerous city.

Related: Cyber ​​Security Awareness Month: How to Protect Passwords and Accounts from Cyber ​​Criminals

Top financial crimes to watch out for:

Buy scams -If you buy something online and never get it. You should only shop on trusted websites and always use your credit card.

Social engineering scam -This is where scammers use information posted on social media to steal IDs and learn passwords. Do not over-share or publish details such as your mother’s maiden name or date of birth online.

Click here for the complete Feedzai report

Top scams by Feedzai:

1. Buy a scam
2. Social engineering scam
3. Spoofing scam
4. Account hijacking (ATO) fraud
5. Smithing scam

The most dangerous US cities of fraud:

As fraud is on the rise, the report analyzes the geographic fraud rates in the United States and reveals the cities with the highest fraud growth in the past year. The most dangerous cities are:
1. Las Vegas (Scams increased by 411%)
2. New York (up 396%)
3. Charleston (up 251%)
4. Nashville (up 193%)
5. San Diego (up 97%)
6. Orlando (up 80%)
7. Chicago (up 56%)
8. New Orleans (up 48%)

Consumer Tips to Prevent Online Fraud from Feedzai:

1.1. Listen to your bank -Banks are constantly investigating and learning about the latest fraud trends. And they have a vested interest in protecting consumers from fraud. Your bank’s educational resources are designed to protect you. Remember that you read and look at them and pay attention to their advice.

2.2. Use biometrics and 2FA -Enable biometrics or two-factor features on your mobile device, such as face scans and one-time passwords. Not only can these solutions improve security, but they can also ensure a smoother experience.

3.3. Protect your information -Beware of text messages, emails, or websites designed to leak your personal information. If you receive a suspicious communication claiming to be from a bank, do not get involved. Instead, report the allegations to the bank.