According to „Tele2“ data, last month nearly 40% of devices with internet protection services encountered threats. Almost 450 thousand malicious domains, websites, and links were also detected.
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Mostly phishing attacks
Among the most frequently blocked threats in June, phishing dominated – more than 95 million such cases were recorded. During phishing, scammers use messages, emails, or websites that look trustworthy to trick out passwords, bank card details, or other sensitive information.
In a month, „Tele2“ internet protection also blocked more than 71 million malware-related threats, over 65 million attempts to access addresses included in the list of untrusted sources, and nearly 5.8 million compromised websites.
“Dangerous content can be encountered while performing completely ordinary actions – searching for a product, reading news, or clicking a link received in a message. Scammers try to create the most credible image possible and take advantage of the moment when a person is in a hurry, expects a big discount, or evaluates information less critically,” says Donatas Drakickas, „Tele2“ product manager.
Seasonal products attract in summer
In June, fake online stores were noticed offering to purchase water recreation products or outdoor loungers. Such pages can look professional – they present product photos, attractive prices, and supposed customer reviews.
After entering card and delivery details, the product usually does not reach the buyer, and the provided information can be used for further fraud.
Another observed tactic is fake pages with false health news. Sensational headlines redirect users to websites advertising dubious products, presenting misleading claims, or asking to enter personal data.
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According to D. Drakickas, scammers often adapt to the season and the most relevant needs of people at that time.
“In summer, people actively look for leisure products, travel offers, or health advice, so these topics become a convenient bait. The more relevant the offer and the more it encourages immediate action, the more important it is not to rush and check what really lies behind the advertisement or link,” says the „Tele2“ product manager.
How to protect yourself?
Before buying from an unknown online store, it is worth checking its address, contact details, return conditions, and independent customer reviews. Unusually large discounts, pressure to buy here and now, or unusual payment methods should raise suspicion.
It is better not to click on unexpectedly received links – it is safer to open the required website independently. It is also recommended to use a different password for each account, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly update device software.
If payment details have already been provided to scammers, you should immediately contact the bank, block the card, and check the transactions made. It is also necessary to change possibly disclosed passwords and report the fraud case to the police. If an unknown program was installed on the device, it should be removed, granted permissions reviewed, and a device security check performed.
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