Identifying and Preventing Different Types of Cybercrime

Millions of people fall victim to cyber-related scams every year. Even the most tech-savvy North Carolinians can be duped by sophisticated tactics. As cybercriminals evolve their methods, awareness and proactive defense are critical to protecting your identity and finances.

Common Cybercrime Schemes

Internet Auction Fraud
Misrepresentation or non-delivery of items on platforms like eBay, Amazon or Craigslist. Always use buyer-protection services, pay by credit card or PayPal and meet sellers in public, municipal police stations often offer safe-exchange zones.

Phishing and Spear Phishing
Fraudulent emails or messages that mimic trusted sources to steal credentials or install malware. Hover over links, verify sender addresses and never provide passwords via email or text.

Ransomware Attacks
Malicious software that encrypts your data and demands payment for decryption. Back up important files offline, keep software patched and use reputable antivirus tools.

Credit Card and Identity Theft
Unauthorized use of your card or personal data to make purchases or open accounts. Review bank statements regularly, enable transaction alerts and freeze your credit reports at annualcreditreport.com.

Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams
Unsolicited promises of high returns on stocks, forex or digital coins. Verify advisors with the North Carolina State Securities Division and treat “too good to be true” offers with skepticism.

Tech Support and IRS Impersonation Scams
Cold callers claim to be from well-known companies or government agencies, demanding payment for fake services. Hang up on unsolicited calls, find official support numbers independently and refuse remote access.

Business Email Compromise (BEC)
Attackers hijack corporate email to authorize fraudulent fund transfers. Use multi-factor authentication, segregate duties for financial approvals and verify unusual requests by phone.

Prevention Strategies

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all critical accounts
• Keep operating systems, applications and firmware up to date with security patches
• Install reputable security software and run regular malware scans
• Secure your home network: change default router passwords, enable WPA3 encryption and consider a VPN on public Wi-Fi
• Monitor your credit and bank accounts monthly for unauthorized activity
• Educate family members and coworkers about social engineering tactics

Reporting and Resources in North Carolina

If you suspect you’ve been targeted, report incidents promptly:

• Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): ic3.gov
• NC Department of Justice Consumer Protection Division: ncdoj.gov/complaints or call 1‑877‑566‑7226
• NC State Bureau of Investigation Cybercrime Unit: 919‑662‑4500
• Federal Trade Commission: reportfraud.ftc.gov

Staying informed about evolving threats and adopting layered security measures helps keep you and your community safe online.