FTC Data Highlights Online Threats To Consumers And Businesses

Ransomware and other cyberattacks represent a tiny fraction of the fraud complaints that Americans file with the Federal Trade Commission, the FTC said in a report published on Friday.
The newly released data, contained in an annual report mandated by Congress, underscore the fact that other schemes, such as tech-support scams, are a more persistent threat to consumers and should be top of mind for businesses hoping to avoid their own potential security incidents.

⁘Imposter scams ⁘ a general category of fraud complaints where someone pretends to be a trusted person to get consumers to send money or give personal information ⁘ are the most common category of fraud reported by consumers since July 1, 2023,⁘ the FTC said in its report.
Tech-support scams are a consistent presence in the FTC⁘s data, although the commission said they pale in comparison to other impostor scam reports.

Since July 2023, less than 3% of all fraud reports concerned tech-support scams, with only 11% of the scams originating from outside the U.S. ⁘It may be that consumers report a U.S. source because the scam often involves impersonating well known U.S. technology companies,⁘ the FTC said.
In the report, the commission highlighted its business education program , which contains guidance on avoiding ransomware attacks, scams and other cyber incidents.

The resources include blog posts with tips, a video on ransomware prevention and a quiz to test employees⁘ preparedness.

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