www.allconnect.com
Open in
urlscan Pro
2600:9000:20eb:6c00:4:7634:dc0:93a1
Public Scan
URL:
https://www.allconnect.com/blog/guide-to-online-safety-phishing-scams-and-fraud-prevention
Submission Tags: falconsandbox
Submission: On August 20 via api from US
Submission Tags: falconsandbox
Submission: On August 20 via api from US
Form analysis 5 forms found in the DOM
<form class="relative md:mb-16" data-email-form="" data-tracking-form-name="Newsletter" data-tracking-form-type="Email" data-tracking-form-id="newsletter"> <input type="text" placeholder="Enter your email address"
class="bg-white w-full border-0 border-b border-solid border-gray-slate email-collection__input outline-none" data-email-field="" aria-label="Enter your email address"> <button
class="w-full md:w-auto flex items-center justify-center border-0 text-link ml-0 mr-0 mt-16 mb-24 md:mt-0 md:mb-0 p-8 md:absolute md:right-0 md:text-12 bg-white email-collection__submit" type="submit"> Sign me up <span
class="pl-16 md:pl-8 pt-2 transform scale-150 md:scale-100"> <img data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/filled-short-arrow-right.svg" width="12px" height="100%"
class="icon icon--ac-icon-filled-short-arrow-right icon--filled-short-arrow-right align-baseline filter-006aeb lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span> </button></form><form class="email-capture__form email-capture__form--modal email-capture-form">
<div class="row">
<div class="col-md-12">
<p class="email-capture__content">Enter your information and get updates on popular Allconnect offers in your area.</p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="row">
<div class="col-12 col-md-8">
<div class="input-text-field input-text-field--modal"> <label for="input-text-input_1--modal" class="input-text-field__label">Email address</label> <input type="text" class="input-text-field__input" name="input_1" id="input-text-input_1--modal"
data-beam="" data-track="" data-type="FormStarted" data-form-type="Email" data-form-disable-value="true" data-form-name="Modal email submission" data-form-id="Email Subscription Modal" data-text="Email address"
data-field-input-attribute="data-track" data-field-label="email_address">
<p class="js-error-input_1 input-text-field__error-text"></p>
</div>
</div>
<div class="col-6 col-md-4">
<div class="input-text-field input-text-field--modal"> <label for="input-text-input_2--modal" class="input-text-field__label">Zip Code</label> <input type="text" class="input-text-field__input" id="input-text-input_2--modal" name="input_2"
maxlength="5" data-beam="" data-track="" data-type="FormStarted" data-form-type="Email" data-form-disable-value="true" data-form-name="Modal email submission" data-form-id="Email Subscription Modal" data-text="Zip Code"
data-field-input-attribute="data-track" data-field-label="zip_code">
<p class="js-error-input_2 input-text-field__error-text"></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="row">
<div class="col-12"> <button class="email-capture__submit button button--large" type="submit" data-beam="" data-type="FormSubmitted" data-form-type="Email" data-form-disable-value="true" data-form-name="Modal email submission"
data-element-type="Button" data-identity-requested="true" data-text="Subscribe">Subscribe</button></div>
</div>
</form><form class="address-form" autocomplete="off">
<h2 class="headline headline-serif headline-serif--3 m-0 mb-16" data-test="addresss-form-enter-address-headline"> Enter your address to view what's available near you</h2>
<p class="helper-copy-large flex justify-start items-center m-0 mb-32"> Why do we ask for your address? <button aria-label="View answer" class="inline-flex justify-start items-center bg-transparent border-0 text-gray-slate p-0 m-0 ml-8"
data-content="<div class='popover-dark bg-gray-steel rounded-4 relative'><p class='body-copy text-white m-0'>We ask for your address to help pinpoint which providers and plans are available in your area. That’s it, and your information will never be shared or sold.</p><p class='flex justify-end lg:hidden mt-8 link link--small text-white'>Dismiss</p></div>"
data-placement="bottom" data-toggle="popover" onfocus="this.Popover.show()" onblur="this.Popover.hide()" type="button"> <img data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/outlined-info-circle.svg" width="12px" height="100%"
class="icon icon--ac-icon-outlined-info-circle icon--outlined-info-circle align-baseline filter-currentcolor lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </button></p>
<div class="address-form__street address-form__input address-form__smarty-container" data-street-container="">
<div class="input-text-field"> <label for="input-search-line" class="input-text-field__label">Street address</label> <input id="input-search-line" class="input-text-field__input address-form__street-input address-form__smarty-input"
autocomplete="off" data-test="input-search-line" placeholder="1234 Main Street" type="search" maxlength="" name="street_line" data-lastpass="disable" data-beam="false" data-track="true" data-event-keyup="false" data-type="FormStarted"
data-form-type="Serviceability" data-form-name="Address Form" data-form-id="Address" data-text="Street address" data-field-input-attribute="data-track" data-field-label="street_address"></div>
<ul class="suggested-address m-0 p-0 list list--link smarty-address-list"></ul>
</div>
<div class="flex flex-wrap md:flex-nowrap">
<div class="address-form__input address-form__input--wide-mobile flex-grow-1 input-text-field" data-city-container=""> <label for="input-text-city" class="input-text-field__label">City</label> <input id="input-text-city" autocomplete="off"
class="input-text-field__input " data-lastpass="disable" data-test="input-text-city" placeholder="" type="text" maxlength="" name="city" data-beam="false" data-track="true" data-event-keyup="false" data-type="FormStarted"
data-form-type="Serviceability" data-form-name="Address Form" data-form-id="City" data-text="City" data-field-input-attribute="data-track" data-field-label="city" value=""></div>
<div class="address-form__input address-form__input--small address-form__input--state input-text-field" data-state-container=""> <label for="input-text-state" class="input-text-field__label">State</label> <input id="input-text-state"
autocomplete="off" class="input-text-field__input" data-lastpass="disable" data-test="input-text-state" placeholder="" type="text" maxlength="2" name="state" data-beam="false" data-track="true" data-event-keyup="false" data-type="FormStarted"
data-form-type="Serviceability" data-form-name="Address Form" data-form-id="State" data-text="State" data-field-input-attribute="data-track" data-field-label="state" value=""></div>
<div class="address-form__input address-form__input--small input-text-field" data-zip-container=""> <label for="input-tel-zip" class="input-text-field__label">ZIP code</label> <input id="input-tel-zip" autocomplete="off"
class="input-text-field__input" data-lastpass="disable" data-test="input-tel-zip" placeholder="" type="tel" maxlength="" name="zip" data-beam="false" data-track="true" data-event-keyup="false" data-type="FormStarted"
data-form-type="Serviceability" data-form-name="Address Form" data-form-id="Zip" data-text="ZIP code" data-field-input-attribute="data-track" data-field-label="zip code" value=""></div>
</div>
<div class="address-form__checkbox"> <label class="checkbox-radio focus-border ">
<div class="checkbox-radio__wrapper flex items-center">
<div class="checkbox-radio__container"> <input type="checkbox" name="isUnit" data-test="" class="checkbox__input checkbox-radio__input capture-address-checkbox" value=""> <span class="focus-border__outline"></span> <span
class="checkbox__input-display checkbox-radio__input-display"></span> <span class="absolute top-0 left-4"> <img data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/filled-check.svg" width="10px" height="100%"
class="icon icon--ac-icon-filled-check icon--filled-check align-baseline filter-fff lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span></div> <span class="sub-headline sub-headline--2 text-18 md:text-16 leading-22 md:leading-18">I live in an
apartment</span>
</div>
</label></div>
<div class="address-form__unit-container" data-unit-container=""> <label class="flex-grow-1 address-form__input address-form__input--unit input--select" for="select-unitType"> <select class="select" name="unitType" placeholder="Placeholder text"
data-test="" id="select-unitType">
<option value="" disabled="">Unit type</option>
<option value="Unit">Unit</option>
<option value="Apartment">Apartment</option>
<option value="Suite">Suite</option>
<option value="Room">Room</option>
<option value="Lot">Lot</option>
</select> <span class="select__icon select__icon--after"> <img data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/outlined-angle-down.svg" width="10px" height="100%"
class="icon icon--ac-icon-outlined-angle-down icon--outlined-angle-down align-baseline filter-006aeb lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span> </label>
<div class="address-form__input address-form__input--unit address-form__input--unit-number input-text-field" id="input-unitValue-container"> <label for="input-text-unitValue" class="input-text-field__label">Unit Number</label> <input
id="input-text-unitValue" autocomplete="off" class="input-text-field__input" data-lastpass="disable" data-test="input-text-unitValue" placeholder="" type="text" maxlength="" name="unitValue" data-beam="false" data-track="true"
data-event-keyup="false" data-type="FormStarted" data-form-type="Serviceability" data-form-name="Address Form" data-form-id="Unit number" data-text="Unit number" data-field-input-attribute="data-track" data-field-label="unit number" value="">
</div>
</div> <button class="address-form__button button button--large mt-32 md:mt-28" data-test="address-form-check-availability-btn" type="submit"> <span class="button__text">Continue</span> </button>
<div class="bg-gray-bg-md p-24 md:p-32 text-center -mx-24 md:-mx-80 -mb-60 md:-mb-80 mt-40 md:mt-48 flex-grow-1">
<p class="text-18 md:text-20 leading-28 md:leading-30 mb-32 md:mb-0 text-gray-steel"> <span class="block md:inline">Need help?</span> Speak to one of our experts.</p>
<p class="sub-headline sub-headline--2 hidden md:block leading-30 mb-0 text-gray-steel" data-fuse="" data-fuse-format="Call: (###) ###-####"> Call: (844) 451-2720</p>
<a class="button button--large button--outline button--full-mobile block md:hidden text-gray-steel border-gray-steel" data-fuse="" data-fuse-format="Call: (###) ###-####" href="tel:8444512720" data-beam="" data-type="ElementClicked" data-location="ContentBlock" data-element-type="Button" data-text=" Call: (844) 451-2720 "> Call: (844) 451-2720 </a>
</div>
</form>#
<form data-return-visitor-form="true" action="#" novalidate="" class="full-address-form">
<div class="street relative flex-grow col-span-2"> <span class="absolute left-24 top-1/2 transform -translate-y-1/2 inline-flex pointer-events-none"> <img data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/filled-map-marker-alt.svg"
width="12px" height="100%" class="icon icon--ac-icon-filled-map-marker-alt icon--filled-map-marker-alt align-baseline filter-0a80ff lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span> <input
class=" border border-solid border-gray-heather focus:border-transparent focus:shadow-smarty-suggestions-2 transition-all duration-200 ease-in-out w-full p-22 pr-0 pl-52 text-16 leading-18 rounded-8 md:outline-none " type="text"
name="street_line" placeholder="Street address" required=""> <span class="absolute inset-1 left-auto w-32 bg-gradient-to-l from-white pointer-events-none sibling-focused:hidden rounded-r-8"></span>
<div class=" one-field-form__error one-field-form__error--street-address hidden flex items-center w-max absolute -top-48 left-0 bg-white rounded-8 border border-red border-solid py-4 px-8 shadow-smarty-suggestions-2 "> <span> <img
data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/outlined-exclamation-circle.svg" width="12px" height="100%"
class="icon icon--ac-icon-outlined-exclamation-circle icon--outlined-exclamation-circle align-baseline filter-d80a07 lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span> <span class="text-12 text-red leading-12 ml-8">Please select an address</span>
</div>
</div>
<div class="flex items-center gap-16 mt-16">
<div class="unitType relative flex-grow w-full md:max-w-200">
<div class="flex-grow w-full md:max-w-200"></div> <select name="unit_type" class=" bg-white appearance-none p-22 py-22 text-gray-slate text-16 leading-18 border border-solid border-gray-heather rounded-8 w-full ">
<option value="" style="display: none" disabled="" selected="">Unit type</option>
<option value="Unit">Unit</option>
<option value="Apartment">Apartment</option>
<option value="Suite">Suite</option>
<option value="Room">Room</option>
<option value="Lot">Lot</option>
</select>
<div class="flex-grow w-full md:max-w-200"></div> <span class="absolute right-24 top-1/2 transform -translate-y-1/2 pointer-events-none"> <img data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/filled-angle-down.svg" width="10px"
height="100%" class="icon icon--ac-icon-filled-angle-down icon--filled-angle-down align-baseline filter-0a80ff lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span>
</div>
<div class="relative unitNumber flex-shrink"> <input
class=" border border-solid border-gray-heather p-22 text-16 leading-18 rounded-8 w-full focus:border-transparent focus:shadow-smarty-suggestions-2 transition-all duration-200 ease-in-out " type="text" name="unit_number"
placeholder="Unit #">
<div class=" one-field-form__error one-field-form__error--unit-number hidden flex items-center w-max absolute -top-48 left-0 bg-white rounded-8 border border-red border-solid py-4 px-8 shadow-smarty-suggestions-2 "> <span> <img
data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/outlined-exclamation-circle.svg" width="12px" height="100%"
class="icon icon--ac-icon-outlined-exclamation-circle icon--outlined-exclamation-circle align-baseline filter-d80a07 lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span> <span class="text-12 text-red leading-12 ml-8">Enter a unit number</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<p class=" font-bold text-gray-steel text-14 md:text-16 leading-16 md:leading-18 flex gap-24 items-center justify-start my-24 md:my-32 "> <span class="m-0"> Moving or just moved? </span> <span class="flex items-center md:ml-24 lg:ml-0">
<label class="m-0 mr-24 last:mr-0 inline-flex items-center cursor-pointer relative group lg:text-16"> <input class="hidden" type="radio" name="address-capture-radio" value="yes"> <span
class="w-26 h-26 rounded-full bg-white border border-solid border-gray-heather mr-8 md:mr-16 sibling-checked:border-gray-steel"></span> <span
class="w-14 h-14 rounded-full bg-white group-hover:bg-gray-bg-md sibling-checked:bg-blue-vivid absolute top-6 left-6"></span> <span> Yes </span> </label> <label
class="m-0 mr-24 last:mr-0 inline-flex items-center cursor-pointer relative group lg:text-16"> <input class="hidden" type="radio" name="address-capture-radio" value="no"> <span
class="w-26 h-26 rounded-full bg-white border border-solid border-gray-heather mr-8 md:mr-16 sibling-checked:border-gray-steel"></span> <span
class="w-14 h-14 rounded-full bg-white group-hover:bg-gray-bg-md sibling-checked:bg-blue-vivid absolute top-6 left-6"></span> <span> No </span> </label> </span></p>
<div class="emailAddress w-full"> <input class=" border border-solid border-gray-heather p-22 mb-8 text-16 leading-18 rounded-8 w-full focus:border-transparent focus:shadow-smarty-suggestions-2 transition-all duration-200 ease-in-out "
type="email" name="email_address" placeholder="Email address (optional)" data-type="ElementClicked" data-location="Returning Visitor Modal" data-position="EmailCollection" data-text="Email address (optional)" data-form-disable-value="tru" ,=""
data-element-type="Input">
<p class="text-10 leading-10 text-gray-slate"> By subscribing, you agree to receive Allconnect promotional emails. Your
<a href="/privacy-policy" target="_blank" class="underline text-gray-slate" data-beam="" data-type="ElementClicked" data-location="ContentBlock" data-action-outcome="INTERNALLINK" data-element-type="Link" data-text="privacy">privacy</a> is
important to us.</p>
</div> <button type="submit" class=" text-white font-bold text-18 leading-18 text-center border-0 bg-blue-vivid hover:bg-blue-vivid-hover rounded-full w-full md:w-auto p-16 md:p-24 md:px-32 mt-24 md:mt-32 "> <span
class="flex justify-center items-center gap-16"> <span> Check availability </span> <img data-src="/wp-content/themes/allconnect/public/images/icons/filled-long-arrow-right.svg" width="22" height="100%"
class="icon icon--ac-icon-filled-long-arrow-right icon--filled-long-arrow-right align-baseline filter-fff lazyload" alt="" loading="lazy"> </span> </button>
</form><form class="email-capture__form email-capture__form--popup email-capture-form">
<p class="email-capture__content">Get the latest internet, streaming, wireless, TV and home security news directly to your inbox.</p>
<div class="input-text-field input-text-field--modal"> <label for="input-text-input_1--popout" class="input-text-field__label">Email address</label> <input type="text" class="input-text-field__input" name="input_1" id="input-text-input_1--popout"
data-beam="" data-type="FormStarted" data-form-type="Email" data-form-name="Sticky modal email submission" data-form-id="Sticky Email Subscription Modal">
<p class="js-error-input_1 input-text-field__error-text"></p>
</div> <button class="email-capture__submit button button--large" type="submit" data-beam="" data-type="FormSubmitted" data-form-type="Email" data-form-disable-value="true" data-form-name="Sticky modal email submission"
data-form-id="Sticky Email Subscription Modal" data-element-type="Button" data-identity-requested="true" data-text="Subscribe">Subscribe today</button>
<p class="modal__legal">By subscribing, you agree to receive Allconnect newsletter and promotional emails. Your
<a href="/corporate/privacy" data-beam="" data-type="ElementClicked" data-location="ContentBlock" data-action-outcome="INTERNALLINK" data-element-type="Link" data-text="privacy">privacy</a> is important to us.</p>
</form>Text Content
Skip to content
Our experts are available to help. Call (844) 451-2720 to shop plans.
* Internet & TV
Internet & TV
Internet
* Internet in my area
* Cheap internet
* Home Wi-Fi service
* Business internet
TV & Streaming
* Internet & TV bundles
* TV providers
* Best streaming services
* Providers
Providers
Top providers
* AT&T
* CenturyLink
* Cox
* Frontier
* HughesNet
* Spectrum
* Verizon Fios
* Xfinity
* View all providers
* Tools & Guides
Tools & Guides
Our tools
* Speed test
* Price savings calculator
* Internet speed quiz
Guides
* How to switch internet providers
* Upload vs. download speed
* How to speed up your internet
* Internet speed classifications
* View all guides and how-tos
Call (844) 512-2720 to order
(844) 512-2720
(844) 512-2720
* Resource Center
* Internet
GUIDE TO ONLINE SAFETY: PHISHING, SCAMS AND FRAUD PREVENTION
AH
Ari Howard
Jul 7, 2021 — 15 min read
Not entirely sure what the risks are online? We've created a complete guide for
everything you need to know to about internet safety and how to avoid online
scams.
At Allconnect, we work to present quality information with editorial integrity.
While this post may contain offers from our partners, our opinions are our own.
Here’s how we make money.
Checking a bank balance, shopping on Amazon or downloading a new app are things
we all do online nearly every day.
As the digital world drives more of these daily tasks, cyber criminals are
growing more sophisticated and finding unique ways to access your data and your
identity.
A cybercrime is any type of criminal activity that is carried out online and it
can happen to anyone. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Maryland
revealed that a cybercrime is committed every 39 seconds in the U.S. It is also
estimated that 1 in 3 Americans are affected by cyber-attacks each year.
The rate of cyberattacks in the U.S. has only increased since the start of the
pandemic. With the bulk of businesses switching to remote work and millions of
Americans working from home for the first time, the risk of cybercrime is as
high as it has ever been. The consulting firm Deloitte revealed that between
February and May of 2020, there were over half a million cyberattacks on video
conferencing services.
The dramatic increase in cyberattacks since the start of the pandemic has
revealed that no one is immune and everyone should know the basics about the
different types of attacks and how to protect oneself online. While there are
dozens of types of cyberattacks, we will be focusing on phishing, scams and
frauds in this article as they make up the majority of cybercrime.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF CYBERATTACKS?
Although anyone can fall victim to a cybercrime, young people in their 20s tend
to be most susceptible to cyberattacks. This is likely due to the younger
generation’s increased dependence on technology. Although those in their early
20s tend to be the most susceptible to cyberattacks, the second most vulnerable
group are the elderly and this demographic tends to lose more money from
cyberattacks than younger people.
The consequences of a cyberattack can vary, but some of the most common
repercussions include identity theft, theft of sensitive data, theft of funds,
unauthorized transactions, loss of usernames and passwords, loss of intellectual
property and installation of malware and ransomware. A cyberattack can also have
devastating effects on the reputation of a business or individual.
WHAT IS PHISHING?
One of the most common ways people experience cyberattacks is through phishing.
Phishing is when a hacker poses as a trustworthy source in order to gain access
to your sensitive information. This act is called phishing because it is similar
to the act of fishing where someone provides a fake lure for the fish to bite
onto. The lure is most often a familiar-looking email, website or ad and the
trap is requesting personal information, such as your bank account information,
Social Security number, password, etc. In fact, research has found that 91% of
all cyber attacks start with a phishing email. If you receive any type of email
that seems at all suspicious, therefore, do not click any links, provide any
information or respond.
TYPES OF PHISHING
The most successful and dangerous of all the cyberattacks is phishing and there
are several types you can fall victim to make sure you are aware of all of
them.
EMAIL PHISHING
Email phishing is when a hacker sends an email disguised as a trustworthy
source. This will often manifest as an email from your work or a familiar
company asking you to update your personal information. You may also receive
emails saying you are in trouble or your passwords have been compromised and you
need to call a number or follow a provided link to manage the issue.
SPEAR PHISHING
While email phishing tends to contain generic content that could apply to anyone
(and is sent out to hundreds or thousands of people), spear phishing is a type
of email phishing specifically targeted towards one individual. Think of casting
out a large net to catch fish versus directly targeting one fish with a spear.
This type of phishing is particularly challenging to identify because the
content of the email is often very personal to you and is carefully designed to
get you to click on a link or attachment.
WHALING/CEO FRAUD
Whaling is a type of spear phishing that is targeted towards a high-profile
person, such as a CEO of a company. This type of phishing can be devastating for
businesses. It’s called whaling because the catch is so large.
SMISHING
Smishing is a type of cyberattack that uses mobile devices as the attack
platform. This type of phishing happens through text messages or SMSs, which is
how it got its name.
VISHING
Vishing is short for voice fishing and is the use of phone calls to conduct
phishing attacks. If you have ever received a voice message saying you need to
update insurance information or are in trouble with the government, this is
likely a form of vishing and you should ignore it.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE PHISHING
If an email, text message or phone call seems even remotely suspicious, trust
your instincts and ignore or report it. Here are the main signs the email is not
from who they are:
* Incorrect URL or domain name: Sometimes hackers will hyperlink a URL so that
it looks like the link will take you to a familiar website, but really it’s
going to take you somewhere else. Before clicking, hover your mouse over the
URL. If it shows a different URL than the one listed, it is likely a scam and
you should not click on it.
* Ask for personal information: If the content of the email you have received
immediately asks for personal information, such as your Social Security
number, that is a huge red flag. There is rarely a time a website or even
your bank account will request personal information in an email out of the
blue.
* Spelling, punctuation or grammar errors: If you notice grammatical mistakes
and spelling errors in the content of the email, the email is likely not from
a reputable source. Trustworthy websites rarely send out emails that have
errors in them since they tend to be heavily proof-read.
* The use of threatening, urgent language or ultimatums: Often, cybercriminals
will use fear as a tactic to get you to comply and give up information. If
you receive a cryptic email that contains threatening language, do not panic,
it is likely just a phishing email.
* Offers and services: If you receive an email with an offer that seems too
good to be true, such as winning a million dollars, there is a high
likelihood that the email is a scam.
* Donations: As awful as it is, many cyber criminals will pretend to be a
reputable charity in order to get you to donate money. If you receive an
email from a charity you would be interested in donating to, go directly to
their website, do not send money through an email link if you have not
subscribed to their newsletter.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU RESPONDED TO A PHISHING EMAIL
* Change passwords: If you clicked on a link from a phishing email and it
directed you to a site that appeared to be your social media account, bank
account, email service or anything else personal to you, you will need to
immediately change your passwords for that site. If your password is the same
for other sites, you will need to change it on those websites as well.
* Scan computer for viruses: If you clicked on a link, filled out personal
information or downloaded an attachment from a phishing email, you will want
to scan your computer for viruses with antivirus software. You can also
contact a security expert and have them scan your computer for you.
* Secure VPN: If you are frequently receiving phishing emails, you may want to
consider downloading a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to your computer. A VPN
can help prevent cybercriminals from contacting you.
* File a report with the Federal Trade Commission: If you believe you are a
victim of identity theft, you should immediately fille a report with the
Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC will help you determine how your
identity was stolen and guide you through next steps to take through a
personalized recovery plan.
* Contact the company that was spoofed: Most companies likely have no idea they
are being impersonated. A good thing to do if you receive a phishing email
that is pretending to be a reputable company is to let the real company know.
They may be able to help stop the spread of future phishing emails.
* Follow your company’s procedures: If you fell victim to a phishing scam on a
company computer, you will need to immediately let your employers know. They
will help guide you through next steps to take.
WHAT IS A SCAM?
A scam is any type of scheme that takes money from an unsuspecting person. This
past year in 2020, consumers lost more than $3.3 billion from scams and the
average consumer lost $311 from a scam, according to the FTC.
5 COMMON SCAMS
* Lottery, sweepstakes and competition scams: If you have been told you have
won some sort of lottery or competition, there are a number of ways to
determine if it’s a scam or not. If you did not enter a lottery or
competition, then you likely have not won anything and you are being scammed.
Additionally, if you are being asked to pay a processing fee or taxes upfront
before receiving your winnings, it is likely a scam. Another scamming tactic
to look out for is if you are asked to wire money in order to receive your
prize from a foreign country.
* Dating and romance scams: Another type of scam is when cybercriminals will
create a fake dating profile and attempt to enter into a virtual relationship
with you so that you will give them money to help them with various fake
scenarios, such as illness or family problems.
* Credit card and online account scams: Many scammers will impersonate your
bank or online payment service (such as Venmo) and request you provide
details about your account in order to fix some fake issue. This usually
occurs over email but sometimes via telephone as well. If you are unsure
whether it is a scam or not, contact your bank directly, not through the
number that was called or via the link sent to you over email.
* Investment or tax scams: A common way scammers may try to steal your money is
by impersonating a local tax authority and requesting personal information
about your finances. They may also claim you have made a mistake on your
taxes or haven’t paid a tax bill and are at risk of facing severe penalties
if you do not respond to them immediately.
COVID-19 SCAMS
There have been many new types of scams emerge as a result of COVID-19. Make
sure you are aware of the different types of COVID-19 scams you could face in
the future.
* Health insurance scams: A common scam throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has
been health insurance scams. Since obtaining health insurance is such a
confusing process, many scammers will capitalize on this confusion and sell
people fake health insurance. A common scam currently circulating are
phishing emails and phone calls about “corona insurance.”
* Vaccination card identity theft: Many people have suffered identity theft
after posting their vaccination cards on social media. There is a lot of
personal information on those cards so keep this card to yourself and off the
internet.
* COVID-19 testing, vaccine and treatment scams: Some scammers will pretend to
offer the COVID-19 vaccination in order to obtain your personal information.
* COVID-19 funeral assistance scam: If you have a family member who has passed
away from COVID-19, be aware that some scammers will pretend to be from
FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program. They may call or email to
register your family member in an attempt to steal your family member’s
Social Security number and other personal information.
* Grandparent and military service member scams: Watch out for a scammer
impersonating your grandchild or a military service member and asking you to
wire them money to pay for medical services, particularly relating to
COVID-19.
* IRS checks and scams: Some scammers will pretend to be the IRS or other
government agency and ask you to send in money in order to receive a check
from the government, such as the COVID-19 stimulus check.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE A SCAM
* Unsolicited or unexpected contact: If you receive an email or phone call that
says you need to do something urgently but the message is completely out of
the blue, this is likely a scam.
* Requesting personal information or money: Any contact that is unexpected but
asks for money or personal information is rarely legitimate. Scammers may
make you think an action is time sensitive so you do something impulsive.
Instead, take your time and contact the websites and phone numbers you trust
to verify you actually owe money or need to give out personal information
before doing so.
* Random competitions: If you have been told you won a competition but did not
enter into it, it is likely a scam and you should ignore it. In general, if
it sounds too good to be true, it probably is and you should stick with your
gut instinct.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU RESPONDED TO A SCAM:
* Block them: You will want to block email or caller, but make sure to note
down their email and phone number.
* Contact your bank: If you fall victim to a scam, you will want to contact
your bank immediately and stop sending money if you’re connected to a direct
deposit.
* Notify credit agencies: If your credit card information has been compromised,
you will want to notify your credit card company and request a fraud alert.
* Report spam: Click the Report SPAM button available in almost all web-based
email services today.
WHAT IS FRAUD?
Fraud is the more general term that scams fall under. While scams always relate
to money loss, fraud includes many types of deception. In 2020, there were over
2.2 million incidents of fraud reported in the U.S. and 34% of those incidents
resulted in the victim losing money. Here are some of the most common types of
frauds you could encounter.
5 TYPES OF FRAUD
* Advance fee or banking fraud: This is when an investor is asked to pay a fee
upfront before a deal can go through. This fee can be framed in a variety of
ways, but you should be aware of the possibility of never seeing that money
again.
* Mail fraud: Mail fraud is any type of fraud that occurs via postage mail.
This can look like receiving a fraudulent letter or it can be having your
mail stolen from you.
* Counterfeit health and beauty products: Any product that makes major medical
claims that are backed by fake testimonies and research or by nothing at all.
Common beauty frauds are anti-aging or immediate weight loss products. Many
of those products may even have dangerous ingredients in them.
* Internet fraud: This is a very general term for any fraud that occurs via the
internet. This can include phishing, data breaches, viruses and more.
* Elder fraud: Any fraud targeted at an elderly person. Seniors are often a
vulnerable population since they are often not as familiar with technology,
tend to be more trusting and generally have more money to give away.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE FRAUD
* Unexpected changes to your accounts: If you notice any unexpected changes to
any of your private accounts or you see unfamiliar accounts on your credit
report, you are likely a victim of fraud.
* Bills or statements unexpectedly stop arriving by U.S. mail: If you are no
longer receiving important bills or statements, contact the company
immediately to find out why.
* Receiving credit cards without applying for them: Contact your credit card
company if you receive a credit card you did not apply for.
* Notifications about address, password or information changes that you did not
make: You will likely need to change your passwords and contact the company
where this information was changed from.
* Shady sellers or buyers: A common type of internet fraud is from online
shopping so if a website seems suspicious, it is best not to buy from them.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU RESPONDED TO A FRAUD
* Collect all pertinent information: You will want to know what personal
information of yours has been compromised and what passwords you will need to
change.
* Report to the authorities: The majority of victims of fraud do not report the
fraud to authorities. If you are worried your personal information, such as
your Social Security number, has been compromised, you will need to report it
and leave a paper trail.
* Check your insurance coverage: You may be able to receive some sort of
compensation for fraud, so make sure you call your credit card company and
check your insurance coverage.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM PHISHING, SCAMS AND FRAUD
* Protect your computer with security software: A great way to keep your
computer safe from viruses is to install security software. Popular options
include Bitdefender Antivirus Plus and Webroot SecureAnywhere for Mac.
* Protect your accounts by using multi-factor authentication: A great way to
ensure hackers do not access your private accounts is by using multi-factor
authentication, such as Okta.
* Don’t click on suspicious links: If you receive a phishy email that has a
link, instead of clicking the link, Google the website it says it is taking
you to yourself. You can also hover your mouse over the provided link to see
if the URL it has hyperlinked is the website it claims it is going to take
you to.
* Call banks and major companies to confirm personal information rather than
email: Contacting your bank or any other company to discuss an email you
received is a much safer option than responding to a phishy email directly.
* If using work-related technology, educate coworkers and staff: Immediately
let your company know if you have accidentally fallen victim to fraud.
Additionally, make sure your coworkers and staff are aware that you are being
targeted for scams so they can be on the lookout for them as well.
* Verify the security of a site: One way to check the security of a site is
looking at the URL. If it says “https” instead of “http” it means the site
has been secured using an SSL Certificate (S stands for secure).
* Watch what you share on social media: Do not post photos on social media that
reveal any personal information. Do not post your vaccination card, a
driver’s license, credit card, etc.
* Report suspicious activity immediately: Reporting suspicious activity will
not only protect you but others who may be the future target of scams.
* Consider using “incognito mode” for browsing: One extra precaution you can
take to prevent having your activity and data tracked is by using incognito
mode on your computer. This is not a fool-proof option but it will provide
you with some additional security.
* Consider using a VPN: A great way to prevent being sent phishing emails is to
use a VPN. When on a private network, it is much harder for scammers to find
you.
* When picking your ISP, check out their available security measures: Many ISPs
will offer free security features with some or all of their internet plans.
Consider this factor when choosing your ISP.
REPORTING SCAMS AND INTERNET SAFETY PROTOCOLS
* Your state consumer protection office: Your state consumer protection office
can help you if you have lost money or possessions due to a scam. You can
find your state’s office here.
* The Federal Trade Commission: The FTC is your best bet if you have fallen
victim to identity theft. They will create an individualized recovery plan
and help you fill out the required forms to manage your situation.
* Internet Crime Complaint Center: If you would like to report an internet
crime, the Internet Crime Complaint Center through the Federal Bureau of
Investigation is the way to go.
* Econsumer.gov: Econsumer.gov is a great resource for reporting international
scams and learning more about how you can avoid scams in the future.
* IRS: Contact the International Revenue Services (IRS) for any issues
relating to tax fraud.
* Anti-Phishing Working Group: To help stop the spread of phishing emails, you
can report any fraudulent email you have received to the Anti-Phishing
Working Group.
* SCAM (7726); If you receive phishing messages over text, also known as
Smishing, forward those messages to SCAM (7726) to help stop the spread.
ALLCONNECT: LET US COMPARE PROVIDERS FOR YOU
Why should you choose Allconnect? We’re the #1 broadband marketplace in the U.S,
meaning you can trust us to search, compare and order internet and TV service
for your home.
Get started
Written by:
Ari Howard
Associate Writer, Broadband & Wireless Content
Ari is an Associate Writer for the Allconnect team, focusing on broadband and
wireless news, as well as broadband and TV provider deals. She recently
graduated from Davidson College with a bachelor’s degree in… Read more
Edited by:
Robin Layton
Editor, Broadband Content
Read bio
WHAT TO READ NEXT
Read more
* Featured
How hackable are the smart devices in your home? We reveal the most
vulnerable rooms Lisa Iscrupe — 9 min read
* Featured
Is public Wi-Fi safe? No, but it is necessary Lisa Iscrupe — 4 min read
* Featured
10 questions you should ask before choosing an internet service Ari Howard —
4 min read
Prev
*
*
*
Next
LATEST
* Tuesday, August 17, 2021
Starlink: Bridging the digital divide
Erin Gobler — 4 min read
* Monday, August 16, 2021
Who runs Biden’s FCC and why it should matter to you
Erin Gobler — 4 min read
* Tuesday, August 10, 2021
Guide for schools and students: Resources for free internet, computers and
tech
Joe Supan — 9 min read
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER FOR INTERNET NEWS AND PROMOS
Sign me up
By subscribing, you agree to receive Allconnect newsletter and promotional
emails. Your privacy is important to us.
THANKS FOR SUBSCRIBING!
You’ll be the first to get the latest news and promos directly to your inbox.
Home page Resource Center Internet Guide to online safety: Phishing, scams and
fraud prevention
Last updated: Jul 1, 2021
(844) 451-2720
Monday — Friday 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST
Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST
Internet and TV
Internet and TV
* Internet in my area
* Cheap internet
* TV providers
* TV/Internet bundles
* Fiber Internet
* Cable Internet
* Satellite Internet
* DSL Internet
* 5G Internet
Company
Company
* About Us
* Our Editorial Policy
* Our Methodology
* Our Providers
* Partner With Us
* Company IP Statement
* newPrivacy Policy
* Cookie Settings
* Do Not Sell My Info
* Terms of Use
Resources
Resources
* Resource Center
* Contact us
* Home Security
Search internet providers by state
Select State
* Alabama
* Alaska
* Arizona
* Arkansas
* California
* Colorado
* Connecticut
* Delaware
* Florida
* Georgia
* Hawaii
* Idaho
* Illinois
* Indiana
* Iowa
* Kansas
* Kentucky
* Louisiana
* Maine
* Maryland
* Massachusetts
* Michigan
* Minnesota
* Mississippi
* Missouri
* Montana
* Nebraska
* Nevada
* New Hampshire
* New Jersey
* New Mexico
* New York
* North Carolina
* North Dakota
* Ohio
* Oklahoma
* Oregon
* Pennsylvania
* Rhode Island
* South Carolina
* South Dakota
* Tennessee
* Texas
* Utah
* Vermont
* Virginia
* Washington
* West Virginia
* Wisconsin
* Wyoming
Connect with us:
Copyright © 2021 Allconnect. A Red Ventures Company. All rights reserved. Terms
and conditions and restrictions apply. All content on this Web site is
proprietary. Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional
fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All
prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on
service address. Speeds may vary
THANKS FOR SIGNING UP.
Check your inbox and stay tuned for deals, news and more.
WANT TO STAY CONNECTED WITH THE LATEST DEALS?
Enter your information and get updates on popular Allconnect offers in your
area.
Email address
Zip Code
Subscribe
AT&T TV IS NOW AVAILABLE TO BUNDLE WITH AT&T INTERNET. GET $300 IN AT&T VISA®
REWARD CARDS WHEN YOU BUNDLE AT&T INTERNET & AT&T TV
EARLY TERMINATION FEE OF $15/MO. FOR EACH MONTH REMAINING ON AGMT., $19.95
ACTIVATION FEE, EQUIP NON-RETURN & ADD’L FEES APPLY. New approved residential
customers only. Excludes DIRECTV and U-verse TV customers.
AT&T TV: AT&T TV requires high speed internet. Recommend minimum 25 Mbps for
optimal viewing (min 8 Mbps per stream). Limit 3 concurrent AT&T streams.
Geographic and service restrictions apply to AT&T Internet services. Not all
speeds available in all areas. Call to see if you qualify.
$300 IN REWARD CARDS FOR AT&T TV/INTERNET BUNDLE: Subj. to change and may be
discontinued at any time. Must purchase through Red Ventures. For new
residential customers. Excludes AT&T TV NOW. Residents of select multi-dwelling
units not eligible.
* $200 Reward Card for AT&T TV: Requires purchase of qualifying AT&T TVpackage
(min. $49.99/mo. for 12 mos when bundled after discounts. Price higher in 2nd
year).
* Additional $100 Reward Card for Internet Orders: Requires purchase of
Internet 100M or higher plan (min. $35/mo + taxes & $10/mo equip. fee).
Reward Card: Will be sent email or letter with redemption requirements.
Redemption req’d. w/in 75 days from reward notification mail or email date.
Reward Card delivered within 3-4 weeks after redemption to customers who
maintain and pay for qualifying service from installation date and through
reward fulfillment. Card expires at month-end 6 months after issuance. No cash
access. For cardholder agreement, go to http://rewardcenter.att.com. The AT&T
Visa Reward Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank pursuant to a license from Visa
U.S.A. Inc. and can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted in the
United States, US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. No cash access. The Bancorp
Bank; Member FDIC. The Bancorp Bank does not endorse no sponsor and is not
affiliated in any way with any product or service offered by AT&T.
AT&T TV: Subject to AT&T TV terms and conditions. Avail. in the U.S. only
(excludes Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands).AT&T TV service will continue
monthly at the prevailing ratecharged to your payment method on file,unless you
cancel, subject to any early termination fees. Once you’ve canceled, you can
access AT&T TV through the remaining monthly period. No refunds or credits for
any partial-month periods or unwatched content. Compatible device req’d.
Residential customers only. Pricing, channels, features, and terms subject to
change & may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. Some offers
may not be available through all channels and in select areas. Regional Sports &
Local Channels: Not available in select areas. Channels vary by package &
billing region. Device may need to be in billing region in order to view.
GENERAL: Limit 3 concurrent streams per account. Programming subject to blackout
restrictions. Taxes may apply. See your Order Confirmation email and
att.com/legal/att-tv.html for more details.
AT&T Internet: Subj. to Internet Terms of Service at att.com/internet-terms.
Offers may not be combined with certain other promotional offers on the same
services and may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. Other
conditions apply to all offers.
©2020 AT&T Intellectual Property. AT&T and the Globe logo are registered
trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks are
the property of their respective owners.
GET HBO MAX™ INCLUDED!
HBO Max: Access HBO Max through HBO Max app or hbomax.com with your AT&T log-in
credentials. Compatible device or browser required. Use of HBO Max is subject to
its own terms and conditions, see hbomax.com/terms-of-use for details.
Programming and content subj. to change. Upon cancellation of your video service
you may lose access to HBO Max. Limits: Access to one HBO Max account per AT&T
account holder. May not be stackable w/other offers, credits or discounts.
Includes usage only in the United States, Puerto Rico & the U.S. Virgin Islands.
To learn more, visit att.com/hbomax. HBO Max™ and related service marks are the
property of Warner Media Direct, LLC.
ENTER YOUR ADDRESS TO VIEW WHAT'S AVAILABLE NEAR YOU
Why do we ask for your address?
Street address
City
State
ZIP code
I live in an apartment
Unit typeUnitApartmentSuiteRoomLot
Unit Number
Continue
Need help? Speak to one of our experts.
Call: (844) 451-2720
Call: (844) 451-2720
Great to have you back!
LET'S CONTINUE YOUR SEARCH FOR PROVIDERS NEAR YOU
Please select an address
Unit typeUnitApartmentSuiteRoomLot
Enter a unit number
Moving or just moved? Yes No
By subscribing, you agree to receive Allconnect promotional emails. Your privacy
is important to us.
Check availability
Glossary of internet terms
Data caps
The limits a provider sets on the amount of data you’re able to use while online
Download speeds
Transfers data to your home for activities like streaming, shopping and browsing
social media
Mbps (Megabits per second)
A unit of measurement used to indicate download and upload speeds
Upload speeds
Transfer data from your home for activities like video calls, uploading large
files, working on online documents and live gaming
THANKS FOR SIGNING UP
Stay tuned for the latest news and tips each week.
Dismiss
SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Get the latest internet, streaming, wireless, TV and home security news directly
to your inbox.
Email address
Subscribe today
By subscribing, you agree to receive Allconnect newsletter and promotional
emails. Your privacy is important to us.