The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has provided tips for users to maintain the security of their devices and online accounts, coinciding with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which occurs every October. The bureau, along with its partner agencies, mentioned that this month, which was announced 18 years ago, serves as a partnership between the government and the private sector to raise awareness about cybersecurity and emphasize the collective effort needed to combat cybercrime, theft, and online fraud.
The FBI affirmed that it is one of the first agencies responsible for "cyber investigations" and is dedicated to keeping users "safe" online. They highlighted the importance of following several tips for protection and the ability to report any online crime by the "victim." The FBI shared a list of "online safety tips," which included "updating software systems, using a good antivirus program, checking incoming email addresses, and links in all correspondence."
The bureau noted that "scammers often imitate a legitimate site or email address, using characters that create slight differences in spelling or naming." They warned that "if a suspicious text message, email, or phone call requests updates regarding account information, it should be verified, and links in the messages should not be followed, nor should the phone numbers mentioned be called."
They emphasized the importance of "visiting the specialized account website or calling the phone numbers listed on the official account websites to confirm if there is anything that actually needs updating." Regarding attachments, the bureau stated that "users should not open any attachments unless they are expected, such as a file, document, or invoice, and they should verify the sender's email address before opening them."
The list also included "reviewing" all electronic payment or money transfer requests, "questioning" any message that urges immediate action, and ensuring the existence of "two-factor authentication."
