Recognize signs of online scams

If you see an unknown payment on your bank statement, notice suspicious messages, or an online seller who disappears after your order, you might have been scammed. These red flags can help you take action quickly to limit damage and protect your accounts.

Act immediately to secure your accounts

The first minutes after an online scam are critical. Fraudsters might use stolen information or malicious software to access other accounts. Securing your messaging is especially important, as unauthorized access can allow them to reset passwords and take control of other services.

Steps to secure personal data

To protect yourself, take steps like opposing payments if your payment details were compromised, changing passwords for affected accounts, and checking your devices for suspicious software. If a payment is unrecognizable or made on a suspicious site, contact your bank immediately using their official app or the number on your credit card.

Change passwords and secure accounts

If you entered a password on a fake login page, change it through the real service’s website. Consider other accounts that might use the same password. Using a unique password per service limits damage from leaks. Start with your main email, bank, and payment accounts. Enable two-factor authentication when available to add an extra layer of security.

Check devices for suspicious activity

Look at your devices for signs of infection. If you clicked a suspicious link, downloaded an attachment, or installed an unknown app, check recently added programs and browser extensions. Unusual ads or unexplained changes could indicate a problem. If unsure, run a scan with up-to-date antivirus software.

Use antivirus and security tools

Bitdefender, Norton, and Avast offer tools to detect malicious software and protect against phishing. Norton 360 Deluxe is useful for protecting multiple devices. However, these tools don’t replace vigilance about sharing confidential codes or verifying suspicious payments.

Consider a VPN for public Wi-Fi

A virtual private network (VPN) can encrypt your internet traffic, making it harder for others on public Wi-Fi to read your communications. However, it doesn’t remove malware or recover stolen passwords. A standard VPN is usually sufficient for checking bank accounts on public networks.

Double VPN and performance trade-offs

Double VPN routes your connection through two servers, adding more privacy but potentially slowing your internet. It’s mainly useful for users who prioritize privacy and can accept slower speeds. A regular VPN is often enough for everyday use.

VPN compatibility and setup

The effectiveness of a VPN depends on your device and the subscription. Some older devices or networks may not support certain features. Choose a provider that offers compatible protocols, like WireGuard, and ensure the setup is simple enough to manage.

Prevent future scams with good habits

Regularly update your system, browser, and apps. Use unique passwords for each account, enable two-factor authentication, and never share verification codes. Monitor your bank statements and be cautious of messages that mimic trusted companies.

Report scams and seek help

If you’ve been scammed, contact your bank and keep records like screenshots, messages, and transaction details. In France, Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr provides guidance on what to do next. A police report may be necessary depending on the situation.

Combine tools and habits for better security

After a scam, changing passwords, contacting your bank, and scanning devices are crucial. Tools like Bitdefender, Norton, or Avast can help, and a VPN can protect your data on public Wi-Fi. Combining these with habits like two-factor authentication and unique passwords helps build a strong defense against online threats.