#BeAProAgainstCons with OCBC's security measures and anti-scam tips

Capable of infecting a computer system or network, a computer virus can spread by replicating itself throughout a network – just like biological viruses. It attaches to existing programmes, which can then infect other programmes and files when a user executes it. Viruses are able to steal sensitive information, delete or modify files, and even launch attacks on other systems.

Ransomware is a type of malware used to encrypt personal files on a device or its operational system, locking the user out of their files or device. This results in the victim losing access to important and often confidential data or disruption to their business operations. Attackers will then threaten to publish their victim's data or permanently block their access unless a ransom is paid off (often in cryptocurrency) to restore access.

Scareware, often disseminated via pop-up ads, is designed to trick users into believing that their device has been infected with malware and then duped to download or purchase malicious (but useless) software to fix the supposed issue.

In some cases, victims will be asked to enter their credit card details or other sensitive information when downloading the fake software, which criminals will then use for fraudulent purposes. Other times, the fake software is simply a way for criminals to install other types of malware into a victim's device.

Adwares are designed to display advertisements on a user's device, typically in the form of pop-up ads, banners, etc. It can track a user's browsing behaviour and collect personal data about their online activities for targeted advertising purposes.

On the other hand, malvertising refers to the distribution of malware through online advertising platforms. They are often designed to look like legitimate ads, and can be used to direct users to phishing sites or other malicious websites.

Short for Trojan horse, a Trojan is a type of malware that is often disguised as a legitimate programme or file, and may be distributed through phishing emails or software downloads. Once it’s downloaded, it can perform a variety of malicious activities, such as stealing financial information or installing additional malware.

Designed to collect information from a device without the user's knowledge or consent, spyware can be used to monitor a person’s online activities and steal sensitive information such as your login credentials and credit card information.

It can be installed on a device through various methods, such as clicking on a malicious link or email attachment, installing infected software or visiting a compromised website.

Victims may come across favourable deals and be lured into contacting these fradulent businesses through their social media or messaging platforms (e.g., WhatsApp). Subsequently, they will be sent a URL to download an Android Package Kit (APK) file which contains malware, potentially allowing scammers to access their devices remotely and steal their personal information and banking credentials.

Be skeptical of advertisements with exaggerated claims that seem too good to be true, and avoid downloading any dubious applications on your devices.

Scammers may attempt to contact victims through calls or text messages, pretending to be a friend or acquaintance. Instead of directly asking for money, they may send victims malicious links on the pretext of seeking assistance for various errands, like making a restaurant reservation or purchasing furniture. The malicious links will lead the victims to either download an APK file and/or to phishing sites where they are tricked into entering their banking details. Thereafter, scammers will access the victims’ bank accounts to perform unauthorised transactions.

Stay cautious when receiving unusual phone calls or messages from individuals claiming to be your "friends”. Be sure to verify their identity through alternative means such as meeting them in person or using previously established contact details, before engaging in any significant transactions or divulging sensitive information.

As businesses increasingly adopt the use of QR codes, scammers are finding new ways to exploit the technology by pasting manipulated QR codes near authorised scan-to-pay signs in public spaces, such as shops and restaurants. Victims are then duped into scanning these codes, unknowingly downloading malware-infected apps that steal confidential and sensitive data.

Be especially wary of codes that may appear suspicious or tampered with, and check with the staff of the establishment to make sure it’s legitimate before scanning.