Meta Marketing “Expert”:

A Laramie citizen reported a scam email from "Mai El Naggar" using an unknown @goaudiencestore address. The email claims to offer insights on improving Meta ad performance by accessing hidden buyer segments, citing a supposed success story with ThinOptics. It promises a free analysis and emphasizes being a "verified Meta Business Partner." CyberWyoming Note: Beware of unsolicited emails promising exclusive marketing insights—scammers often use fake credentials and success stories to lure victims. Always verify sender legitimacy and avoid clicking links or sharing business data with unknown sources.

Fraudulent Health Coverage Text:

A Laramie resident reported receiving a scam text from an unknown Michigan number. The message claimed to be from “Alyssa, a licensed health broker”, offering special nationwide health plans outside of open enrollment and promising lower costs and better benefits. Recognizing the message as a scam, the recipient reported it, blocked the number, and deleted the message. CyberWyoming Note: Never reply to or engage with unexpected texts from unknown numbers — block and report them instead. Responding can confirm your number as active to scammers. Always verify offers such as insurance or financial deals directly with official sources before providing any personal information.

The Rise of Fraudulent Job Offers:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has warned about a rise in job scams that use game-like tasks to deceive victims, with reports increasing from zero in 2020 to 20,000 in the first half of 2024. These scams often start with random texts or WhatsApp messages offering paid online work. Scammers lure victims by initially paying small amounts, then trick them into sending money—usually in cryptocurrency—with promises of higher returns before disappearing. Job-related scams in general have tripled from 2020 to 2023, with reported losses surpassing $220 million in the first half of 2024. Task scams alone accounted for nearly 40% of these cases. Cryptocurrency-related losses doubled in 2024 compared to 2023, totaling $41 million. The FTC advises ignoring unsolicited job offers, avoiding payments to get paid, and recognizing that jobs asking for product ratings or likes are typically fraudulent and against FTC rules.
– Brought to you by PCMag
pcmag.com/news/ftc-scams-involving-fake-online-jobs-quadruple-in-first-half-of-2024

AI’s Role in Real Estate Cybercrime:

Generative AI is significantly increasing the threat of cybercrime in real estate, making it easier for fraudsters to execute sophisticated attacks with little technical expertise. AI is being used for activities like creating fake websites, automating convincing phishing scams, and even deep fake videos, which are difficult to detect and can infiltrate real estate transactions. Cybersecurity experts are concerned that these advances will lead to more fraud, but they are also developing AI-powered security measures to counteract these threats. The real estate industry is urged to adopt better security practices and for governments to incentivize stronger protections to combat rising cybercrime.
– Brought to you by Secure The Village & HousingWire
‍housingwire.com/articles/how-gen-ai-is-making-real-estate-cybercrime-easier-than-ever/

New Malware Targets Mac Users:

Over 2,800 hacked websites are targeting Mac users in a malware campaign called ClickFix, which spreads the password-stealing Atomic Stealer. Disguised as a fake reCAPTCHA prompt, the attack tricks users into pasting malicious code into Terminal, leading to malware installation. Once installed, it steals Keychain credentials, browser data, files, and crypto wallet info. This campaign specifically targets macOS and uses social engineering to bypass antivirus tools. To stay safe, avoid interacting with suspicious pop-ups, especially those asking you to open Terminal. Use trusted antivirus software, enable built-in Mac protections, and share this warning with others to help prevent infection.
– Brought to you by Tom's Guide
tomsguide.com/computing/online-security/macs-under-threat-from-thousands-of-hacked-sites-spreading-malware-how-to-stay-safe

Is Your Webcam Spying on You?:

Using a PC may seem private, but hackers can spy on you through your webcam without you realizing it. One warning sign is the appearance of strange video or photo files on your computer that you don’t recall creating, especially in the webcam’s default folder or Recycle Bin. Another red flag is your webcam light turning on at odd times, which could signal remote access—though it’s worth checking if a background app or browser extension is responsible. Hackers may also alter your PC’s security settings, so keep an eye out for changed passwords, unknown apps with camera access, or disabled notifications. Some attackers try to scare victims by sending messages claiming they’ve hacked the webcam and demanding money—never pay these ransoms, as the claims may be fake or based on publicly available images. Finally, if your webcam re-enables itself after being disabled in Windows settings, it could suggest unauthorized control—though software updates or necessary apps might also be to blame.
– Brought to you by PCWorld
pcworld.com/article/2768297/5-signs-a-hacker-is-watching-through-your-pcs-webcam.html

NSA's Top Mobile Security Tips:

The NSA advises turning your phone off weekly to reduce security risks. Other tips include updating apps, using official app stores, avoiding public Wi-Fi, disabling Bluetooth, using strong passcodes or biometrics, and avoiding public USB charging. These steps help protect against threats like malware and spyware, though complete protection isn't guaranteed.
– Brought to you by ZDNet
zdnet.com/article/the-nsa-advises-you-to-turn-off-your-phone-once-a-week-heres-why/

Data Breaches in the News:

Adidas, Alera Group, OxBykes, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, and a large database containing account credentials of Microsoft products, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Roblox, and PayPal. Note: If you have an account with any of these companies, be sure to change your password and consider placing a credit freeze on your accounts through the three credit reporting agencies: TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax.

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Please report scams you may experience to phishing@cyberwyoming.org to alert your friends and neighbors.

‍Other ways to report a scam:

• Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker: bbb.org/scamtracker/us/reportscam
• Wyoming Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection
  • Email ag.consumer@wyo.gov
  • Complaint form attorneygeneral.wyo.gov/law-office-division/consumer-protection-and-antitrust-unit/consumer-complaints

• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov
• Get steps to help at www.IdentityTheft.gov
• Report your scam to the FBI at www.ic3.gov/complaint
• Reported unwanted calls to the Federal Trade Commission’s Do Not Call Registration. Online at donotcall.gov/report.html or call 1-888-382-1222, option 3
• Office of the Inspector General: oig.ssa.gov
• If you believe someone is using your Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
• AARP Fraud Watch Network (any age welcome) Helpline 877-908-3360
• IRS: report email scams impersonating the IRS to phishing@irs.gov
• Call the Wyoming Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) for assistance with potential Medicare fraud, abuse, or errors at 1 800 856-4398
• Victim Support: The AARP Fraud Watch Network and Volunteers of America (VOA) created a new, free program to provide emotional support for people impacted by a scam or fraud, called ReST. Visit www.aarp.org/fraudsupport to learn more about the free program and register