Here at Bristol Private Detectives we work on many cases such as identity fraud, or individuals being scammed online. When you have any online presence, this increases your risk of becoming a target as your personal information is held online. Of course, given the nature of the work we do we know how easy it is to gather information upon individuals but there are scammers out there that will use this to their advantage.
Below are a few top tips to stay safe online to protect yourself:
- Always set your social media accounts, like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, to private. This prevents unknown individuals from accessing your private photos and posts. Ensure that only people you know can add you and view your personal information.
- When you sign up to any websites set up what is called a two-factor authentication on your profile to protect your accounts if available.
- Regularly change your passwords on each account you use.
- Set up different passwords on each to ensure all of your accounts do not have the same passwords.
- Always ensure when you are using public WIFI such as internet cafes, airports etc. you are signing out of any websites you have signed into to ensure that no third parties can access your information.
- Do not download any unknown applications on your phone or your computer that you do not recognise.
- Do not hand over any personal information online to anyone you do not know.
- Do not trust websites which state if you fill in your information you will receive free goods. Most of these are scams to obtain your personal data.
Bristol Private Detectives have worked on many cases over the years assisting clients which have been victims of scams online. If you suspect online scams, visit our Investigations & Background Checks page for more information and assistance. If you would prefer to have a FREE confidential discussion please call us on 01173270114. One of our investigators will discuss your case during a FREE 30-minute consultation. Helping to understand your situation and how we can best assist you.