Got an email saying your webcam was hacked? Don’t worry — it’s just another sextortion scam. I’ll tell you why it’s all fake and how to stay safe.
3 ways to screen out killers, stalkers and other threats on dating apps
Killers use social apps as hunting grounds. Last Friday, Oregon authorities arrested a man for torturing a woman he found on a dating app. Police say he held her captive and beat her into unconsciousness.
The woman is in critical condition at an Oregon hospital — but many victims don’t survive. If you’re using dating apps, you must protect yourself.
After all, you can’t trust Big Tech to prioritize your safety over profit. Meta kept quiet when a killer targeted a Facebook group for new mothers. Be proactive with the following strategies to stay safe.
1. Verify your match’s identity
The first way to avoid dangerous people on dating apps is to Google them. Whenever you match with someone, use a reverse image search to look up their photos. Here’s how:
- Screenshot photos of the profile and save them to a desktop. Use full images rather than cropped thumbnails.
- Upload the photos to Google Images and hit the camera icon to run a search.
- Using a smartphone? We can help you do a reverse image search on your iPhone or Android.
Remember: If you get no results, the profile could still be fake. Type your match’s name into a search engine, along with their city and state. Look them up on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn to ensure the pictures on their dating app match the ones on other accounts.
2. Check their criminal records
This is public information. Google your state and “court records.” Government websites will help you search for your match’s name.
Look through the public records. If you see any restraining orders, cut off communication immediately. Stalking is an escalating behavior that will only get worse with time.
Can’t find anything? Look up their phone number on a database like Social Catfish, RocketReach or USA People Search. Here are some of the internet’s most popular people search sites — along with instructions to remove your information!
They probably use a false identity if their name isn’t attached to their phone number.
Scam alert! 5 most dangerous software program names to Google
Search engines can be portals for scammers to slip malware into your devices. Some searches are more dangerous than others. Cybercriminals use popular software searches as avenues to infect your devices.
To be clear, these apps and services aren’t dangerous, but searching for them is. That’s because scammers often impersonate them. Cybercriminals love to leech off the credibility of well-regarded companies, so if you type one of these terms into Google Search, you might find scams at the top of your search results.
Hackers’ new target: They’re tricking retail employees to get into their work accounts. Why? To make gift cards to use in stores and online. Stay safe, employers: Tell your team to avoid clicking random links, and make sure your antivirus software is up to date.
Convincing bank text scam could cost you thousands
Online banking is convenient and safe as long as you take some precautions. While it’s nice to avoid standing in long lines waiting for a teller, there’s always the chance for hackers and scammers to get involved. Tap or click here for three online banking mistakes putting your money at risk.
How T-Mobile is helping us stay connected when it matters most
The outbreak of COVID-19 has completely transformed our way of life. And of all the groups affected by the coronavirus pandemic, older Americans are among the most at risk.
Before statewide lockdowns and stay-at-home orders were requirements, our nation’s oldest citizens were advised to isolate themselves from friends and loved ones to stay safe.
5-minute phone privacy check
In just five minutes, you can secure your phone from unwanted snooping. Follow these quick steps to stay safe.
Mac attack: A new macOS malware called “Cuckoo” is targeting older Intel-based Macs and newer models with Apple chips. It steals passwords and takes over your system. It’s spreading via websites and apps that convert streaming music into MP3s. Stay safe: Use TotalAV to protect your tech — it’s just $19 for a year.
Tips to stay safe this New Year's Eve
Heading out solo? Check out these tech tips to help you stay safe.
TikTok's hot seat in Congress, AI lawyer sued & 4 free alternatives to Microsoft Word
Plus, do you have a DJI drone? I’ll give you the inside details on a security flaw that reveals your exact location. Fake job listings are running amok online – here’s how to stay safe. Learn how AI is coming to your office, get paid for (fake) online jury duty, and discover 4 ways to know if something has been photoshopped. Finally, I have a great tip on how to clean up your messy phone apps.
Coronavirus testing: How to get the first FDA-approved at-home test
One of the most frustrating parts of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the availability of testing kits. Even in regions where tests are plentiful, doctors still advise people with mild symptoms to stay home rather than come in and confirm their status.