Every year, Safer Internet Day raises awareness about online safety, urging users to take proactive steps to protect themselves and others in the digital world. This year’s theme, “Too Good to Be True? Protecting Yourself and Others from Scams Online”, highlights the importance of being vigilant about online scams. With the rising tide of online scams, it’s essential to stay vigilant, recognise the warning signs of fraud, and take steps to protect our personal data.
To support this message, the Cyber Security Centre for the Isle of Man and the Isle of Man Information Commissioner's Office are joining forces to remind Island residents to stay alert and safeguard themselves against online threats.
The Growing Threat of Online Scams
Scams have becoming increasingly sophisticated as cybercriminals find new ways to exploit unsuspecting users. Whether through fake job offers, online deals, or the promise of romance, scams lure individuals by promising something desirable in exchange for personal information, money, or both. The unfortunate reality is that at least £850,000 was lost to scammers in 2023, many people fall victim to these scams, sometimes unknowingly handing over sensitive information and money.
Too Good to Be True
As the theme of Safer Internet Day suggests, one of the hallmarks of a scam is an offer that sounds too good to be true Scammers often prey on people’s desires for quick money, free prizes, or unbelievable deals, making promises that seem irresistible. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember: Legitimate opportunities don’t come with unrealistic guarantees or promises that sound too perfect.
Unsolicited Communications Are Illegal
One of the most important rules to remember online is that unsolicited communications whether through email, phone calls, or messages are often a red flag. Scammers frequently initiate contact out of the blue, often pretending to be legitimate organisations like banks, government bodies, or well-known companies. These unsolicited approaches are typically the first sign that something isn’t quite right.
On the Isle of Man, unsolicited communications, also known as direct marketing, “cold calls”, or “spam,” are illegal. The Island’s unsolicited communications regulation requires businesses to obtain consent before contacting individuals and prohibit deceptive tactics, such as impersonating legitimate organisations or making false claims to obtain personal information.
If you receive an unexpected message or phone call asking for personal or financial details, remember that it’s likely a scam. Reputable companies will never ask you to provide sensitive information via email or over the phone. Always verify the authenticity of the request by contacting the organisation directly using a trusted contact method.
The Isle of Man Information Commissioner’s Office handles complaints about direct marketing. More information about how to make a complaint is available on their website.
Your Data is Valuable, Never Give It Away
Your name, address, phone number, and financial details, have become a commodity. Scammers view this information as highly valuable because it can be used to commit fraud or gain unauthorised access to your accounts.
Given its importance, it’s important to secure your personal data at all costs. Never share sensitive details such as passwords and banking information through email, text, or over the phone unless you are sure the communication is legitimate. Additionally, consider using multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible to add an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
Another important aspect of data protection is being cautious about what you share on social media. Scammers often use social media platforms to gather information about you such as your location, family members, and interests—which can then be used to craft more convincing scams.
How to Protect Yourself from Scams
- Be Sceptical: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often create offers that seem incredibly appealing, like winning a large sum of money or receiving a free gift. Always approach such messages with caution and be sceptical about their legitimacy.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: As a general rule, never give out personal details unless you are absolutely sure about the legitimacy of the request. If you have doubts, take the time to verify the request using official channels.
- Check for Red Flags: Scammers often use urgent language and try to create a sense of panic, saying that you need to act immediately to claim your prize or secure your account. Look for poor grammar, unfamiliar email addresses, and suspicious links that don’t lead to legitimate websites.
- Use Strong Passwords and Security: Create unique, strong passwords for each of your online accounts. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or names. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) can also protect your accounts from unauthorised access.
- Educate Others: Share your knowledge of online safety with family members, friends, and colleagues, especially those who may not be as tech-savvy. Scammers often target older adults or vulnerable individuals who aren’t familiar with how to spot scams.
- Report Scams: If you receive a suspicious message or fall victim to a scam, report it to us. We can only provide the right advice and guidance to the public and local businesses from the information that is shared and reported to us.
Safer Internet Day provides an opportunity to reflect on how we operate online and what we can do to make it a safer place for everyone.
Let’s work together to ensure that the internet remains a place where everyone can connect, learn, and grow safely.