With recent news that one of the most popular brands of routers in the United States may soon be banned over cyber security risks, and the FBI warning Americans about a massive data breach through SMS text messaging, protecting your personal information is more important than ever. “We’re banking and shopping online more than ever. And we love it. But it also means we’re now more at risk of falling victim to Internet scammers,” says international cybersecurity company Kaspersky. “That’s why you should keep an eagle eye on your PayPal, Amazon, Google Checkout and other online payment accounts, so you can spot suspicious activity right away.” Here are 5 signs your financial data may have been exposed to cybercriminals.
RELATED: 17 Things That Make You a Target for Scammers.
1. Don’t Ignore Notifications
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It’s understandable to skim through emails when you get scores of unimportant ones every day, but it pays to be on top of anything even slightly unusual. “Don’t ignore notifications: If you get an email saying your account details have changed and you didn’t change them, your account may be compromised,” according to Kaspersky.
2. Social Media Changes
iStockChanges to your social media algorithms could mean someone has access to your data. “Be alert to changes in the content you’re seeing on social media,” ‘White hat hacker’ Ash Shatrieh tells the Daily Mail. “Sudden shifts, such as an influx of posts in unfamiliar languages or suggestions from accounts you haven't engaged with, could indicate suspicious activity. Social media algorithms are tailored to your preferences, and unexpected changes might signify unauthorized access.”
3. New Messages Without Notifications
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If you’re getting new messages without corresponding notifications, someone could have access to your private information—including banking. “Be wary if you observe the presence of new, unread emails without receiving corresponding notifications and experience delays in delivery,” Shatrieh warns. “This could be an indication that hackers have set up rules which can divert or hide emails from your inbox, suggesting that the hacker may be selectively releasing certain messages while concealing others. Check your Inbox settings to see if there are rules diverting emails to addresses you don’t know.”
4. Blocked From Online Accounts
iStockIs your password suddenly not working? “Any changes to your online accounts or your ability to access them are clear warning signs that you’ve been hacked,” says Aura. “Specifically, you should watch for:
- Sudden logouts from your social media, email, or online banking accounts
- Passwords that no longer work when you try to log in
- Unexpected emails or texts about login attempts, password resets, or two-factor authentication (2FA) codes
- Changes to your settings, back-up account details, or security question.”
5. Unusual Small Transactions
iStockHackers may try and steal a small amount of money from your accounts to see if it works. “Regularly review bank or credit card statements for unauthorized transactions,” Shatrieh says. “Hackers might initiate small transactions as a test before attempting larger ones. Stay vigilant, even with seemingly insignificant amounts and report any suspicious transactions to your bank immediately. If you see attempts to spend on your card, call your bank and cancel the card.”
6. Impersonating You Online
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Hackers may impersonate you online for nefarious purposes. “Hackers may use your stolen information or access to your accounts to scam your professional contacts or impersonate you online,” says Aura. “Be alert if business partners or potential clients mention strange interactions they've had with ‘you’ on platforms you don't use. Also, watch for signs that someone is using your identity to apply for jobs, loans, or submit insurance claims in your name.”
