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FTC Issues Consumer Alert on Phishing Scams

2024-09-08 BrokersView

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued a consumer alert on phishing scams where you may get a text or email warning you that something is wrong with an account online and it probably says your streaming account is about to be suspended unless you respond quickly. It might even have a link that will supposedly fix your account’s problems. The message looks real, but it is not.

 

“Your first instinct might be to click to solve your problems. Don’t click. There’s likely nothing wrong. Instead, it might be a phishing scam,” the FTC reminded.

 

Scammers pose as well-known companies to get you to give up sensitive information via text or email. A phishing email might:

 

  • say they’ve noticed some suspicious activity or log-in attempts — they haven’t
  • claim there’s a problem with your account or your payment information — there isn’t
  • say you need to confirm some personal or financial information — you don’t

 

The FTC noted that while real companies may send you emails or text messages, they don't do things like send a link to update your payment information. Only scammers do that. The commission further warned that even if you don't enter any sensitive information, opening a link in an unexpected text message or email can expose you to scammers.

 

The FTC said in the warning: “So, don’t click on any links in unexpected emails or texts. If you’re concerned, contact the company directly using a link you already use or a phone number you know is correct. If you clicked on a link in an unexpected email, update your security software and run a scan to look for viruses and malware.”

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