Worth Its Weight in Scams

Imagine your computer screen suddenly locks up with a pop-up message. The alert warns you that cybercriminals have attacked your device and instructs you to call a number right away to connect with law enforcement and resolve the issue. You connect with a helpful official who tells you to grant them remote access so they can fix your computer and catch the hackers. But this supposed official is actually a scammer! Once you let them into your computer, they quietly capture your financial information. The criminals will then claim that your money is no longer safe in your accounts. They will advise you to withdraw it all and buy physical gold bars instead. They will even send a courier to your house to pick up the gold and take it somewhere for "safekeeping.” But in reality, that courier is just another scammer, and your savings are gone for good! ________________________________________ Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to this scam: • Real security software never says your computer is infected and demands you call a number to fix it. Always stop and think before you act. • Never give remote access to your computer to someone who contacts you unexpectedly, even if they claim to be an official or a law enforcement agent. • No real law enforcement official will ever tell you to withdraw your savings and turn them into gold, cash, or gift cards. If you have questions about your money, call your bank directly or check its official app or website.

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