Here at Private Detectives Manchester we work on many cases such as identity fraud, or individuals being scammed online. When you have any online presence, this increases your risk of becoming a target. Your personal information is held online. Of course, given the nature of the work we do we know how easy it is to gather information upon individuals. There are scammers out there that will use this to their advantage.
Below are a few top tips to stay safe online to protect yourself:
- If using social media accounts such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok etc ensure you change your settings to private. Unknown individuals can look at your private photos, or postings etc. this will only allow people that you know to add you and view your personal information.
- Social media accounts are always a target for scammers. Always enable two factor authentication to protect your accounts.
- Regularly change your passwords on each account you use. Set up different passwords on each to ensure all of your accounts do not have the same passwords.
- Use Multi Factor Authentication whenever possible. This will prevent access to sensitive personal data if your password is compromised.
- Always ensure when you are using public WIFI such as internet cafes, airports etc. you are signing out of any websites you have signed into to ensure that no third parties can access your information.
- Do not download any unknown applications on your phone or your computer that you do not recognise.
- Do not hand over any personal information online to anyone you do not know.
- Do not trust websites which state if you fill in your information you will receive free goods. Most of these are scams to obtain your personal data.
What to do next
At Private Detectives Manchester we have worked on many cases over the years dealing with identity theft. Assisting clients in which have been victims of scams online.
If you have concerns you have been scammed online reach out to us. For more information take a look at our Investigations & Background Checks page. If you would prefer to have a FREE confidential discussion please call us on 0161 327 1076. One of our investigators will be able to discuss your options. We offer a FREE 30 minute consultation where we will help understand your situation and advise you on how we can help you.