At Cowabunga Computers, safeguarding your personal and business data is our priority. In light of recent events, we want to inform you about two critical security concerns: a rise in smishing attacks and the recent NPD data breach.
1. Protect Yourself from Smishing Attacks
Smishing, or SMS phishing, is a scam where cybercriminals send fraudulent text messages, pretending to be someone you trust, such as your boss or a well-known company. The goal is to trick you into revealing personal information or making unauthorized transactions.
Common Smishing Scams:
- Boss Impersonation: You receive a text that looks like it’s from your boss, asking you to purchase gift cards and send the codes urgently.
- Fake USPS Delivery Notice: You get a message claiming USPS couldn’t deliver a package, urging you to click a link to reschedule delivery.
What to Watch For:
- Urgent requests for money or personal information.
- Poor grammar or unusual language that doesn’t match the sender’s usual tone.
- Unexpected messages from delivery services or financial institutions with links.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Verify Requests: Always contact the person or organization directly using known contact details before taking any action.
- Avoid Clicking Links: Instead of clicking on links in unexpected messages, visit the official website or call customer service.
- Use Mobile Security Software: Keep your mobile device secure with reputable security software.
- Report Suspicious Messages: Report any suspicious texts to your IT department or to us at Cowabunga Computers for further advice.
2. The NPD Data Breach: Is Your Information at Risk?
Recently, the NPD (National Privacy Database) suffered a significant data breach, potentially exposing personal information of millions of individuals. This breach has affected many businesses and individuals, and it’s crucial to check if your information is at risk.
How to Check if You’re Affected: You can quickly see if your information is part of the breach by visiting the official NPD breach search page: NPD Breach Search.
What to Do If You’re Affected:
- Change Passwords: Immediately change your passwords on any accounts that may have been compromised.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Increase your account security by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on all your accounts.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank accounts and credit reports for any suspicious activity.
- Contact Us: If you’re unsure about your next steps or need help securing your accounts, reach out to Cowabunga Computers for assistance.
Stay Vigilant and Secure
As cyber threats continue to evolve, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your personal and business data. We’re here to support you—don’t hesitate to contact Cowabunga Computers with any questions or concerns.
Stay safe and secure!