Ken's Corner
"Spoofing" has plagued the internet for years, nearly since its inception. Whether it’s the infamous "Nigerian Prince" claiming to need a generous soul, or an overseas "solicitor" seeking a partner to help move a widow’s inheritance, these scams may have become jokes in pop culture, but the reality is far more alarming. In 2023, online fraud accounted for a staggering $12.5 billion in losses, with investment scams raking in over $4.6 billion.
But what exactly is spoofing? At its core, spoofing involves someone impersonating a trusted entity — like a company or individual — to deceive you into trusting them long enough to send money or share sensitive information. Last year, for the first time, email became the most common method of spoofing, overtaking older tactics like text messages and phone calls.
One common ruse is a caller posing as your bank, alerting you to suspicious activity on your account. Basic tactics like guessing answers to security questions or pressuring you for information, attempt to gain access to your bank account and drain your funds.
Another scam many people encounter online is the pop-up warning. These alarming messages often sound like a police siren or a voice informing you that your computer has been involved in illegal activity or that your antivirus software has detected a virus. The pop-up will then urge you to call a number immediately and leave your computer on. If you do, the person on the other end will offer to “fix” the issue by taking control of your system — in reality, they’ll install software that records your keystrokes and tracks your activities. Expect to be offered a “fix” for around $200 or more, but don’t fall for it. If you see such a pop-up, power off your computer and resist the temptation to call the number. A simple reboot may resolve the issue, but it’s a good idea to have a trusted technician check your system to ensure it’s not compromised.
As technology advances, so too does the sophistication of these scams. Cybercriminals can now reach a global audience with greater anonymity, and with tools like AI-generated content and automated systems, they can craft highly convincing phishing emails and fake identities. Yet, the silver lining is that technology allows authorities to track and gather more solid evidence of these fraudulent activities.
The key takeaway? Always be cautious. Never share sensitive information with anyone you’re not certain about, especially online. Once your data is out there, it can be nearly impossible to fully erase.
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- Written by: CPCC & IVNet
- Category: Ken's Corner
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