One recent emerging tactic is vishing, or voice phishing, where fraudsters use phone calls to impersonate contacts and attempt to obtain sensitive information or prompt unauthorized actions. AI-powered tools can make these attempts even more convincing by allowing fraudsters to imitate familiar voices and communicate in ways that sound authentic.
While these tactics are becoming increasingly sophisticated, a few simple precautions can help reduce your risk.
Five tips to stay cyber safe
- Verify unexpected requests. If you receive an unusual request involving confidential information, bank account changes, account access, MFA approval, or a financial transaction, pause and confirm its legitimacy through a trusted, independent channel. Even a familiar voice, phone number, or email address may not be what it seems. For example, if you receive updated banking instructions, a request to change payment details, or an unexpected verification code or multi-factor authentication (MFA) prompt, contact the individual or organization using previously established contact information. Do not rely on the phone number or contact details included in the message itself.
- Be cautious of urgency. Fraudsters often create a sense of urgency to encourage quick decisions. Be mindful of requests that pressure you to act immediately or bypass established procedures.
- Protect sensitive information. Never share passwords, verification codes or confidential information with an unverified caller, even if they appear to represent a trusted organization or colleague.
- Think before you click. AI can also be used to create highly convincing emails and messages. Be cautious of unexpected links, attachments and requests, even when communications appear professional and error-free.
- Report suspicious activity. If something seems unusual, notify your organization’s IT or cybersecurity team. Early reporting can help prevent potential incidents and protect others. Cybercrime and fraud can also be reported to the RCMP and Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre through the National Cybercrime and Fraud Reporting System.
Building cyber resilience
As technology evolves, so do the tactics used by fraudsters. Protecting sensitive information requires more than technology alone. It also depends on awareness, strong internal processes, and a culture where employees feel empowered to question and verify unusual requests.
We recognize that cybersecurity is an important component of organizational resilience. Through our relationship with VARS, a cybersecurity firm, we understand the value of combining proactive risk management with specialized expertise to help organizations navigate an increasingly complex digital environment.
Ultimately, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By remaining vigilant and following established security measures, individuals and organizations can take meaningful steps to protect their information, operations and trusted relationships.
When in doubt, pause, verify and report.
Reach out for help
We’ve created a strategic alliance with VARS Corporation whose multidisciplined professionals offer clients innovative and practical solutions to their cybersecurity needs. Your business can benefit from cutting-edge information security expertise that will help safeguard your most sensitive data. Reach out to VARS Corporation to learn more!
