Imagine you’re on the web when a full-screen alert takes over your browser. The alert shows an Apple or Amazon logo, a red warning symbol, and a message that your account was just used for a large purchase. The alert tells you to call a support number immediately, and it blocks the rest of the page so that number is the only thing you can click. You recognize the logo and are worried about the large purchase, so you quickly call the number.
But this alert is actually a scam! If you call the number, you won’t be talking to support staff, but a cybercriminal instead. They’ll ask you to verify your account by providing personal information, or they might try to get you to pay a fake fee. If you do this, you’ll be falling right into the cybercriminal’s trap!
Follow these tips to avoid similar scams:
- Never call a phone number that appears in an unexpected alert on your screen. Instead, go to the organization’s official website to find the support number.
- If an alert claims you were charged, sign in to your bank’s website directly to review your recent transactions.
- Always stop and think before you act!
Source: Alphastar Capital Management Security Team
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Megan Jones joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as marketing director. Megan and her husband live in Fredericksburg, VA with their German Short Haired Pointer, Gus. Megan is a graduate of Longwood University and holds a degree in communications. Megan is the oldest of Dave Lopez’s three children and not only enjoys working alongside her father, but also with her cousin, Chase, who joined the ILG Financial team in 2020 as an advisor. Megan is also a fully licensed Life, Health, and Annuity agent. When not at work, Megan enjoys sitting on the back porch with family and friends enjoying food and music.
Amy Anderson joined the ILG Financial team in 2023 as the client relations coordinator. Her responsibilities include scheduling of appointments, annual check-up notifications, and annuity and required minimum distribution assistance. She is a graduate of Harding University with a degree in Computer Information Systems. Amy and her husband have two children and she enjoys reading, crocheting, music and spending time with her family.
Terri Center joined the ILG Financial team in 2019 as client services manager. She handles client records, application processing, and gathering information to provide a professional and friendly experience with all of our clients. Terri is a graduate of Oakland University. She is married and has two children. She enjoys hiking, family time, and puzzle challenging video games. She also likes to share her creativity in her canvas paintings and sewing projects.
Jessica Carson joined the ILG Financial team in 2018 as an agent. Jessica and her husband have four children, two dogs, 3 barn cats, 5 chickens, and three parakeets. She indeed loves her children and pets! When not at work, Jessica enjoys playing the piano and cello as well as traveling and spending time outside with her family, hiking, fishing, and boating.