Think Before Clicking the Link

Modern technology allows people to communicate around the world, work remotely, shop online, pay bills and complete countless other daily tasks. But those same technologies have also created opportunities for criminals operating across the globe.

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), traffic distribution systems (TDSs) are increasingly being used by cybercriminals to gain access to victim networks for ransomware attacks and other financial scams. TDS technology routes internet users to different destinations after they visit websites, click advertisements, sign up for promotions or download applications.

Sheridan Media invited First Federal Bank and Trust Executive Vice President of Technology and Security Tyler Neeriemer, Payments Risk and Operations Specialist Jessica Cunningham and Sheridan County Undersheriff Lt. Doug Sanders to appear on Public Pulse to discuss scams and fraud schemes commonly seen in the Sheridan region.

The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office alerts the public to new scams. Many of these scams require an action to be made by the potential victim; clicking a link, visiting a website or even making a call.

Neeriemer, whose career has focused on protecting sensitive financial information, warned people to be cautious of any message or alert that creates a false sense of urgency. 

T. Neeriemer

Many people rely on internet search engines to find contact information for their legitimate companies or service providers. Cunningham, whose work focuses on tracking electronic payments and financial transactions, urged users to use caution because criminals often purchase sponsored search results to make fraudulent websites appear legitimate.

J. Cunningham

Neeriemer said sponsored search results often appear above unpaid search results and may be identified only by a small “Sponsored” label or box that is easy to overlook.

The FBI recommends the following precautions to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of a malicious TDS:

Exercise caution when clicking advertisements.

Keep software updated.

Use reputable security software and firewalls.

Strengthen login security by using strong, unique passwords.

Install plugins, themes and software only from verified developers.

The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office tracks numerous scam techniques used to steal money and personal information. Anyone who believes they may be the target of a scam is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office for assistance. Click here.