d DOLLARS & SENSE
Click Wisely
BY ANDE FRAZIER
Outsmart scammers before they outsmart you. Your financial security depends on it.
The bottom line? Stay skeptical and informed.
12 | NW GEORGIA LIVING MAY / JUNE 2025
In today’ s digital world, cybersecurity isn’ t just relevant to tech experts— it’ s something we all need to take seriously. With cybercriminals constantly finding new ways to steal our personal information, financial data, and even our identities, protecting ourselves online is more important than ever. So, how do you stay safe? Let’ s break it down, starting with the most common threats lurking on the internet.
Common Online Scams and Threats
Phishing attacks. These are fake emails, texts, or messages that appear to be from a trusted source like your bank, a government agency, or even a friend. They trick you into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information.
Social media scams. Fake giveaways, impersonation accounts, and fraudulent investment opportunities are everywhere on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Online shopping fraud. Come across a deal that seemed too amazing to pass up? Scammers create fake e-commerce sites that look real but steal your credit card information when you check out.
Identity theft. Using stolen data like Social Security numbers or passwords, criminals can open credit accounts, file fraudulent tax returns, or impersonate you.
Phone scams and vishing( voice phishing). Ever gotten a call from someone claiming to be with the IRS or tech support? Scammers use fear and urgency to pressure you into sending money or giving out sensitive information.
Ransomware attacks. Hackers can lock your computer or files and demand a ransom to restore access. This often happens when you click on a bad link or download an infected file.
Artificial Intelligence Is Changing the Game
With the rise of artificial intelligence( AI), scams have become even more sophisticated, making it harder than ever to tell what’ s real and what’ s a threat. Remember the classic email scam where a supposed Nigerian prince needed your help transferring a fortune? While those emails may still exist, cybercriminals have become far more advanced. From phishing emails to deepfake videos, they’ re using AI and automation to scale their attacks, making them more convincing than ever before. Here’ s how AI is being used to trick people:
AI-generated deepfake scams. AI can create fake videos or voice recordings that impersonate celebrities, company executives, or even your loved ones to promote fraudulent investments, fake kidnappings, or corporate fraud.
AI-driven phishing emails and texts. AI allows scammers to craft perfect phishing emails, personalizing them based on social media data to make them more believable.
Fake customer service bots. Scammers create realistic looking chatbots that mimic real companies like Amazon or PayPal, tricking people into giving away personal data.
AI-powered investment scams. AI-generated stock-picking scams and fake crypto trading bots promise huge returns but steal your money instead.
How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Threats
While cybercriminals are getting smarter, you can outsmart them by