Digital Life University

The headline reads:

Most Sophisticated Gmail Attacks Ever—FBI Says: Do Not Click ANYTHING

If you read the article (linked below), you will learn attacks capable of evading Gmail filters have increased 49% since the start of 2022. This is largely driven by artificial intelligence.

Bottom line, the danger from attackers to your Gmail account has never been greater.

DO NOT CLICK ANYTHING (OK to click on this Forbes link - ;-)

Most Sophisticated Gmail Attacks Ever—FBI Says: Do Not Click Anything Heed this FBI advice as dangerous, and increasingly AI-based attacks against Gmail users continue at pace. Here’s what you need to know.

What is SMISHING you might ask? It's a "phishing" online scam which begins with an SMS (text) message.

I recently read an article from a 30 year old tech reporter who writes for the INSIDER (https://www.businessinsider.com/hit-with-newest-usps-scam-smishing-2023-8) who admits EVEN SHE fell for this scam and she's a digital native.

The USPS says they don't send tracking texts or emails which include links. The USPS DOES have services to track packages, but you have to ask for it and initiate the text yourself. These alerts from the actual USPS will NOT contain a link, and do NOT cost any money.

Don’t fall for this sneaky nameless number text scam!

A phone number text messaging scam has been making the rounds on smartphones.

This new sneaky scam has a scammer text you from a random number claiming that they have your phone number yet don't have a name attached.

They will then try to gain your sympathy by saying they're a long-lost friend or family member and they want to reconnect. The message will look something like the pic in this post.

However, this is just a ploy to get you to give your full name so that they can associate it with your phone number. Once a scammer has your full name and phone number, they can easily dig up other information about you, like your email, home address, and anything else they can find on the dark web that is connected to you. This will allow them to build a profile on you to gain access to your private accounts and even potentially steal your identity.

If you suspect the text sender is engaging in fraudulent activity or if they continue to bother you despite your best efforts to determine their identity, consider blocking their number.

The amount of information and level of dependency we all have on our smartphones is staggering. In this informative Wall Street Journal article, the reporters outline how criminals are now watching you in person, seeing and remembering your access code if you enter the code in public and then attempting to physically steal your phone. Armed with the unlock code, the damage to your life and personal finances can be devastating.

How can you help mitigate this risk? Never enter your access code in public. Use Face ID or Finger ID.

A Basic iPhone Feature Helps Criminals Steal Your Entire Digital Life The passcode that unlocks your phone can give thieves access to your money and data. “It’s like a treasure box.”

Attention Android phone users. You should already be using the free version of Lookout to avoid malware and security risks in general.

BUT today there is an Android virus called Stage fright. You can download this free dedicated app from the makers of Lookout to check your phone right now:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lookout.stagefrightdetector

Stagefright Detector