With the incredible popularity of social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, it’s not surprising that cyber criminals are targeting these sites’ users with “angler phishing” scams. Here are a few steps to help ensure you don’t become the next “phish dinner” for a cyber criminal.

“May I be of service?” – caught in the angler’s net

Cyber criminals are increasingly using the messaging services – in-app communications – of social media apps to identify and contact users. According to the RBC Cyber Security experts, the “angler phishing” scam works as follows:

• Criminals identify active social media users and track public conversations or messages, looking for requests for technical help.
• They send messages to these active users pretending to be the help desk for a legitimate business or organization, offering technical assistance or advice.
• The criminals lead their targets to a phony social media account or page, where they are asked to give out personal information (for identity theft purposes) or even transfer money.

Avoiding the angler phisher’s lure

To avoid being the next victim of an angler phisher scam, ensure you are:

1. Wary of contacting companies on social media: When messaging, check the legitimacy of the company username, and keep your conversation private by using the direct messaging feature.
2. Careful not to “overshare”: To reduce the chances that cyber criminals can use your information against you or on its own to engage in identity theft, minimize sharing of any personal or business information, such as email addresses, home address and personal details.
3. Leery of any “instant friends”: On many social media sites, once you allow a user to become a “friend” they can access all of your information and all intimate personal details you have posted.
4. Engaging all privacy settings: Check all of your social media sites’ privacy settings to ensure you are only sharing information that you are comfortable with sharing and that won’t compromise your security against cyber criminals.
5. Looking before biting: Phishing scams often depend on users making hasty decisions. Before reacting to any request, email or message that seems even remotely suspect, check in with your local RBC branch or call us at 1-800-769-2511 -- we may be able to help.

Be cyber aware – spotting the bad worm

Social media sites can offer great ways to communicate with friends, family and businesses. But unfortunately, as in the physical world, it is important to always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Cyber criminals are constantly evolving their nefarious ways to better deceive and manipulate online users, so it helps to remain up-to-date to protect yourself. If you are interested in learning more, check out the RBC Cyber Security site. Also, use the top-notch security offered through RBC Wealth Management Online whenever you want to safely communicate with your RBC Dominion Securities Investment Advisor.

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