Don’t let the scammer in!

In today's digital age, the terms "fraud" and "scam" are often used interchangeably. While both can have devastating consequences, it's crucial to understand their distinct characteristics.

Scams typically involve our unwitting participation. The scammer deceives us into:

• Sharing personal information

• Revealing passwords

• Granting access to our computer screens

These actions can lead to:

• Theft of money

• Identity theft

• Other harmful consequences

Fraud, on the other hand, occurs without our direct involvement. Key points include:

• Information is stolen, often not directly from us

• We may be unaware of the theft until it's too late

Imagine you've stored your credit card information with an online vendor for convenience. If the vendor's security is breached, fraudsters may be able to access:

• Your personal info

• Your credit card number

• The card's security code

With this information, they can use your credit card or even obtain a new card in your name.

While neither fraud nor scams are desirable, understanding their differences can help us better protect ourselves in an increasingly digital world.

Next time we’ll address some thoughts on how Artificial Intelligence is changing how the game is played.