In this episode: social engineering, pig butchering, cryptocurrency risks, scammer tactics, and avoiding being a victim.

This week Brad speaks with cyber security expert Tom who will be giving some updates on the landscape of cybersecurity, what targeted scams look like, as well as some actionable steps you can take to avoid these scams. Though it may seem that cybersecurity attacks are ever-evolving and may be harder and harder to avoid, there are ways to make yourself less vulnerable to attacks. Making sure you’re having open conversations about this topic with your friends, and especially your older family members is crucial and can make sure you avoid falling for these scams! 

🔑 Key Themes Discussed:

• The rise of social engineering scams and how they manipulate victims
• “Pig Butchering” scams: how scammers build trust, then steal your money
• How cryptocurrency is used in scams and the risks involved
• Recognizing investment scams and protecting yourself from fraud
• The emotional and psychological tactics scammers use to isolate victims
• The role of AI and fake profiles in advanced scams
• Actionable steps to avoid becoming a victim
• The importance of spreading awareness to protect your family and friends
• Reporting scams and what to do if you’ve been a victim

🕒 Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction and Overview of Cybersecurity Threats
• 02:00 – What is Pig Butchering and How it Works
• 04:00 – Investment Scams and Social Engineering Explained
• 06:00 – How Scammers Build Relationships and Gain Trust
• 08:00 – Examples of Scams: Dating Apps, Fake Profiles, and Social Media
• 12:00 – Cryptocurrency in Scams: What to Watch Out For
• 16:00 – The Role of AI and Deepfakes in Cyber Scams
• 18:00 – Personal Stories: Victims Who Lost Everything
• 22:00 – Action Steps: How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones
• 27:00 – How to Report Scams and Recover Funds
• 29:00 – Recognizing Scams in Everyday Life: Red Flags and Signals
• 34:00 – Final Thoughts and Preventative Tips

🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources:

• Securing Your Financial Life | ChooseFI Ep 397
• Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

• Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances
• CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account
• M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing
• CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards
• Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points
• Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off)
• Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)
• Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile