It all starts so innocently. You get a text saying “Your package couldn’t be delivered. Click here to reschedule.” Little do you know, clicking that link could open the door for scammers to steal your identity, empty your bank account, or even plant malicious software (malware) on your device. Unless you know what to look out for, one little tap on the wrong text could cost you money and peace of mind.
Text scams, also known as smishing (SMS + phishing), are on the rise. These fraudulent messages are sent by cybercriminals and are showing up more often and getting harder to spot. The goal is to get you to give up sensitive personal details that can be used to hack into your accounts, and they are alarmingly successful. The Federal Trade Commission reports that in 2024, consumers lost $470 million to scams that started with text messages.
Watch out for these common scams
Package delivery alerts
Package delivery alerts are the most common text scam. They often impersonate trusted delivery services like UPS, FedEx, and USPS. They claim there’s a delivery problem, then try to trick you into acting quickly by creating a sense of urgency. Because so many of us shop online and have packages delivered regularly, this is a scam that’s easy to fall for. Instead of clicking a link in a suspicious text, go directly to the delivery service’s website and enter your tracking number manually.
Tip: Messages like “Click now to avoid fees” are a red flag that you should make you think twice.
Photo credit: TextMagic
Unpaid toll alerts
These scams claim you have an overdue toll charge and demand that you click a link to make a payment or you’ll be hit with late charges. Don’t do it! These scammers are trying to gather personal data like your driver’s license number and credit card information so they can steal from you. Remember, fake texts are often sent from phone numbers or email addresses you do not recognize, so never click on a link sent from an unknown number.
Bank account alerts
These scams look like they’re from your bank and claim there’s an issue with your funds. You’re asked for sensitive information like bank logins and passwords, which can be used to drain your bank account. They direct you to click a fake link or call a phony number to resolve it.
Tip:Most major banks, including Chase, Wells Fargo and Bank of America, will never ask for personal or account information via text.
Photo credit: Wells Fargo
Wrong number texts
Wrong number texts are designed to seem like a legitimate accident. They start with a simple text like “Hi Mary, are we still on for Thursday?” and you respond “Sorry, wrong number.” The unknown person then tries to start up a friendly conversation, with the goal of establishing a connection and sometimes even cultivating a romantic relationship. It’s common for these cybercriminals to try and con you into a fraudulent investment like a cryptocurrency scam.
Task scams
Task scams are fake job opportunities. You get a text promising online work with lucrative pay and flexibility. The offer may entail fun tasks like getting paid to shop, but the purpose is to lure you into sharing personal information like your social security number, which can be used to steal your identity. As always, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Prize or gift card scams
It’s easy to feel lucky if you get a text claiming you’ve won a prize, a gift card or other type of reward. Sadly, many people fall for this type of fraud. These messages appear to be from legitimate retailers like Amazon, Walmart or Target. They say things like “You’ve been selected for a $100 gift card!” and tell you to click a link to claim your prize. These scams often work because they generate a sense of excitement and urgency, but they’re just another way to trick you into clicking and entering personal or payment information. In reality, there’s no prize – just a phishing site or malware ready to steal your data.
Photo credit: TextMagic
Mobile security checklist
Most of us use our phones for everything – banking, shopping, messaging, and storing personal information. That makes them a treasure trove of sensitive data and a high-value target for cyberthieves. Here are some tips to help you strengthen your mobile security against text scams and other types of fraud.
Don’t click: If you get a text from an unknown sender, do not click on any links. Reach out to the company using a confirmed phone number or website to check if it’s a legitimate message.
Don’t share: Never share any of your personal or financial information via text. Remember that if someone is asking you to do this, they’re most likely a scammer.
Fight the fear: Be wary about responding to a text that sounds urgent or threatening. Scammers love to take advantage by creating a sense of fear.
Stay updated: By keeping your phone’s software up to date, you’ll always have the latest security patches. This is an important tool for protecting against viruses and other malware.
Stay vigilant: If something seems too good to be true, it likely is. You probably haven’t won that latest iPhone, especially if you don’t remember entering a contest. Always take a moment to think critically before acting.
Use strong passwords: Long, complex and unique passwords are a cornerstone of mobile security. Webroot solutions include password managers that help you stay safe while simplifying your life.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Use two-factor authentication on your accounts, especially for banking and email.
Scan regularly: Scan your device on a regular basis with trusted security software. Whether you’re using Android or iOS, Webroot Mobile Security offers automatic scanning of apps and updates, as well as real-time protection against phishing and malicious websites.
Use a VPN: Consider usinga VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect your personal information when you’re on public Wi-Fi. Webroot Secure VPN provides safe browsing and online transactions for enhanced privacy and data security.
Text scams are a sneaky way for hackers to get access on your private data, but you don’t have to fall prey to them. By staying alert to the subtle signs of text scams and arming yourself with the security of Webroot, you can stay safe from the latest mobile threats. Browse, shop, and bank with confidence, knowing that your phone — and everything on it — is protected.
Phishing attacks are a significant threat to consumers, with cybercriminals constantly evolving their tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into phishing schemes has made these attacks even more sophisticated and challenging to detect.
AI-enabled phishing attacks seriously threaten consumers and their data. The volume of these attacks is staggering with an estimated 3.4 billion spam emails sent daily. The financial impact of phishing attacks amount to over $52 million so far in 2025. The threat of AI phishing attacks is pervasive, so let’s get prepared. Find out how AI enhances phishing attacks on consumers and how you can learn to identify and protect yourself.
AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data from social media, public records, and other online sources to create highly personalized phishing messages. By understanding the target’s interests, behaviors, and communication patterns, AI can craft messages that appear more legitimate and relevant, increasing the likelihood of the target falling for the scam.
For example, you receive a text message from your bank using your name and asking you to authorize a recent purchase that happens to be from Amazon or another retailer you frequent. To authorize the purchase, you need to click an obfuscated link that will bring you to a fake website that mimics your bank’s website. When you enter your information, it will be stolen.
2. Automated phishing campaigns
AI can automate the process of creating and sending phishing emails, allowing cybercriminals to launch large-scale campaigns with minimal effort. Machine learning models can generate convincing email templates, select appropriate recipients, and even schedule the timing of emails to maximize their impact.
Automated phishing scams usually aren’t full of personalize data, but are targeted to an audience that will think the email was meant for them.
3. Deepfaketechnology
Deepfake technology, powered by AI, can create realistic audio and video content that mimics the appearance and voice of trusted individuals. This technology can be used in phishing attacks to create fake video calls or voice messages from a CEO or other authority figures, convincing employees to transfer funds or share sensitive information.
How to detect AI-enabled phishing attacks
1. Scrutinize email addresses and URLs
Always check the sender’s email address and the URLs in the email. Phishing emails often use addresses that look similar to legitimate ones, but have slight variations. Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking. For example: info1@wellsfargo.com
2. Look for generic greetings
Phishing emails often use generic greetings like “Dear Customer” instead of your name. Legitimate companies usually personalize their communications.
3. Check for spelling and grammar errors
Many phishing emails contain spelling and grammar mistakes. While AI-generated emails are becoming more sophisticated, errors can still be a red flag.
4. Be wary of urgent or threatening language
Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency or fear to prompt immediate action. Be cautious of emails that threaten account suspension or demand immediate payment.
5. Verify unexpected attachments or links
If you receive an unexpected attachment or link, verify its legitimacy before opening it. Contact the sender through a different communication channel to confirm. Also, ensure the sender is legitimate.
6. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Enable multi-factor authentication on your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to gain access even if they obtain your login credentials.
Protecting against AI-enabled phishing attacks
1. Advanced email filtering
Use advanced email filtering solutions that leverage AI and machine learning to detect and block phishing emails. Google blocks about 100 million phishing emails a day.
2. Regular software updates
Keep your software and systems up to date. Regular updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.
3. User education and awareness
Stay informed about the latest phishing tactics and educate yourself on how to recognize phishing attempts. Awareness is a crucial defense against phishing attacks.
4. Identity protection and antivirus
Invest in all-in-one protection for your identity that includes a password manager, VPN, antivirus and even dark web monitoring. Webroot’s Total Protection allows you to live your life digitally without worry.
Stay in the know
AI-enabled phishing attacks represent a significant evolution in the tactics used by cybercriminals. As these attacks become more sophisticated, it is essential for consumers to adopt advanced security measures and stay vigilant. By leveraging AI for defense, investing in user education, we can better protect ourselves against the growing threat of AI-driven phishing attacks.
To learn more about how to protect yourself and the solutions that help keep your digital life safe, visit Webroot.
In today’s digital world, passwords have become a necessary part of life. But even though you use them for almost everything you do online, you probably don’t give them the thought they truly deserve. May 1, 2025, is World Password Day, a reminder that passwords are the unsung heroes of cybersecurity, the first line of defense for all your sensitive personal data. This annual event encourages you to level up your password game and strengthen your online defenses. World Password Day is more relevant than ever in today’s evolving threat landscape.
Data breaches are on the rise, and according to the 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report, a staggering 81% of them are linked to weak or compromised passwords. The bottom line? If you’re still relying on “Fluffy123”, you could be putting your personal information at risk. Let’s explore password-based attacks, and some steps you can take to lock down your logins, once and for all.
Threats to your passwords
Managing all your passwords can be a hassle. They’re easy to forget and hard to keep track of, so people tend to use and reuse simple passwords they can remember. But here’s the issue – cybercriminals are getting smarter and their attacks are only getting more sophisticated. If a scammer gains access to your personal details, they can create havoc with your finances and cause you stress for years to come. In the past, brute force attacks were the go-to method, which involved simply using trial and error to crack passwords. Today, hackers use much more complex methods – here are a few examples.
Password phishing: In a phishing attack, scammers will use emails, phone calls, or texts to pose as trusted businesses and service providers. They may send you a fake invoice to pay. They might offer you an amazing deal on an upgraded service. Sometimes they threaten to cut off a service if you don’t respond immediately. The goal is to trick you into giving up your username and password so they can access your data and steal your money.
Credential stuffing: Once hackers have your login details, they often try what’s called credential stuffing – using your stolen credentials (username and password combinations) to try and break into your other accounts. Why does this work so often? Because more than two in three people admit they reuse passwords across multiple accounts.
Malware: Infostealer malware can be used by hackers in the background to steal your personal information including your passwords. Once the malware is on your device it can search your web browsers, email clients, digital wallets, files, applications, etc. looking for sensitive information. They can even look for old forms you filled out with passwords, record your keyboard strokes, and take screenshots of your computer dashboard. The malware then sends this information back to hackers’ servers, sometimes within seconds. Hackers can use this type of malware for large attacks as seen by the targeted attack on Snowflake customers.
Password security checklist
Create strong passwords
Longer is stronger: Aim for passwords that are at least 16 characters long. Research shows this number of characters takes exponentially longer to crack.
Difficulty matters: “12345” may be an easy password to remember, but it isn’t going to keep the cybercriminals away. Create a unique mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols for each password.
Be unpredictable: Avoid using obvious patterns and personal details that will be easy for hackers to figure out. This means no street addresses or phone numbers, and especially no personal details you might be sharing on social media.
Did you know?More than 50% of people admit to using familiar names for their passwords, such as their kid’s name or their pet’s name. 15% said they use their own first name in their passwords!
Change reused passwords If you’re reusing the same password across accounts, it’s time for a refresh. All it takes is one compromised account for a hacker to potentially unlock dozens more. Start with your most sensitive accounts, such as banking, email, and healthcare and update those first.
Did you know?According to a study by Forbes Advisor, on average, people reuse the same password for at least four accounts.
Use multi-factor authentication Even if a hacker obtains your password, you can still stop them in their tracks by adding a second layer of security to your login process. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) includes things like one-time codes sent to your phone or scans of biometric features, such as your face or fingerprints. Did You Know?Using MFA can stop over 99% of account compromise attacks.
Consider using passphrases or passkeys These are two alternatives to passwords that you might want to consider.
A passphrase is a string of unrelated words that’s easy to recall and tough to crack. For example, something nonsensical like “FancyGoldEmuDancing “ will be hard for a hacker to guess, but it might be easier for you to memorize than a string of numbers and symbols.
A passkey is an authentication method that uses biometric data, like facial recognition or a fingerprint. It can also use a swipe pattern (a three-by-three grid of dots) or a PIN. A passkey is used across all your devices, creating a password-free login.
Did you know? Not only does signing in with a passkey make your data much more secure, it’s also three times faster than using a conventional password.
Use a password manager Password managers are tools that make your life easier by doing the hard work for you. By automatically generating and storing your strong passwords, they reduce the risk of recycled or forgotten logins and provide secure access across all your devices. Webroot solutions include password managers and much more, including features like real-time phishing detection to prevent credential theft.
Did you know?Users who rely on password managers are less likely to experience identity theft or credential theft than those who don’t.
Protect your devices Antivirus software scans detect and defend against any virus or malicious program like malware, trojans, adware and more that might cause damage to your devices. Webroot products offer robust antivirus protection that continuously scours the internet to identify and block the latest threats.
Did you know? Hackers are moving away from browser-based attacks and embedding malicious software into everyday files like documents, installers and media. More than 50% of all consumer malware now enters through downloads and desktop.
Never forget that your passwords are the very foundation of your digital defense strategy. With cyberattacks becoming more and more sophisticated, creating strong passwords is no longer optional – it’s essential. This World Password Day, take the time to check in on your password practices. Update those old logins, enable MFA, and let Webroot do the heavy lifting. Just a few simple steps today can save you a world of trouble tomorrow.
In today’s digital world, your personal data is like cold hard cash, and that’s why cyberthieves are always looking for ways to steal it. Whether it’s an email address, a credit card number, or even medical records, your personal information is incredibly valuable in the wrong hands.
For hackers, breaking into a company database is like hitting the mother lode, giving them access to millions of personal records. Why? Because whether you know it or not, many companies are collecting and storing your private data. Think about all the information you hand over when you order something online, like your full name, your credit card number, your home address, and maybe even your birthdate just to snag an extra discount. If a company you do business with becomes part of a data breach, cybercriminals may have full access to your confidential information.
Unfortunately, data breaches are on the rise and affecting more companies and consumers than ever. In 2024, more than 1.3 billion people received notices that their information was exposed in a data breach. Chances are you’ve received at least one of these letters, which means you have been put at risk for identity theft and major financial losses.
What are data breaches and how do they happen?
Data breaches occur when sensitive, protected, or confidential data is hacked or leaked from a company or organization. Sometimes businesses are targeted because they have outdated or weak security. While no industry is immune, some sectors are more likely to become victims of breaches because of the sensitive nature of the data they handle. Here are some of the most likely targets for access to consumer data:
Healthcare organizations: Healthcare companies are a prime target for cybercrime due to the large amounts of sensitive data they store, which includes personal information and medical records. In 2024, there were 14 data breaches involving 1 million or more healthcare records. The largest breach affected an estimated 190 million people and a ransom of 22 million dollars was collected by the hackers.
Financial services industry: Banks, insurance companies and other financial organizations offer a wealth of opportunity for hackers who can use stolen bank account and credit card information for their own financial gain. In 2024, mortgage lender LoanDepot was the victim of a cyberattack that compromised the information of more than 16 million individuals.
Retail and e-commerce: Retail and ecommerce businesses are vulnerable to breaches because they handle and store vast amounts of customer payment information, including addresses, credit card numbers and more. Many retailers operate both brick-and-mortar stores and ecommerce platforms and rely on a variety of mobile apps, PoS (point-of-sale) systems, and cloud-based platforms, which creates more entry points for hackers to exploit.
Tech companies: With access to user data, software systems and intellectual property, tech firms are frequent targets. Apple, Twitter and Meta have all reportedly been victims of cyberattacks.
Government agencies: Because government organizations store highly sensitive information, social security numbers, they are considered especially high-value targets for cyberattacks.
The most-wanted data
The type of information stolen in data breaches varies depending on the organization, but here’s a list of the kind of data cybercriminals are seeking:
Emails and passwords
Payment and credit card information
Medical records and health data
Social Security numbers
Driver’s license numbers
Banking details and account numbers
What hackers do with your data
Once data is exposed in a breach, cybercriminals will test your usernames and password combinations across thousands of sites, knowing that most people recycle their emails and passwords. Here are just some of the ways hackers exploit your stolen information:
Identity theft: Hackers use your personal info to impersonate you. They can open accounts in your name, apply for loans, and even file false tax returns.
Selling it on the dark web: Stolen data is frequently sold to the highest bidder on dark web marketplaces. This makes it accessible to a worldwide network of criminals.
Phishing and social engineering: Using your personal information, scammers can craft more convincing phishing emails or messages to trick you into giving up even more sensitive details, like passwords and PIN numbers.
Financial exploitation: When your credit card numbers or bank account details are compromised, cyber thieves can use that information to make financial transactions in your name. They can rack up charges on your credit cards and even drain your bank accounts.
Data reuse and repurposing: It’s important to remember that your stolen information can be used for fraud and theft even years after a data breach, so it’s crucial to stop using recycled usernames and passwords on both old and new accounts or systems.
Hijacking online accounts: If your login credentials (usernames and passwords) are leaked, all your online accounts are put at risk. Besides your financial accounts, cyber thieves can also access your social media accounts and other platforms, leading to a major loss of privacy in addition to monetary losses.
How to minimize the risks
Stay alert: Be on the lookout for any signs of fraud and use an identity protection plan to guard against suspicious activity. Webroot Total Protection monitors the dark web for you and sends alerts if your email or personal information has been found in a breach.
Use strong, unique passwords: Strong, unique passwords are a simple, yet powerful security tool. Webroot Essentials plans offer password managers that do the hard work for you, keeping all your passwords safe and encrypted while you remember just one password for a quick and seamless login on every site and app.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Turn on two-factor identification wherever possible, especially for financial accounts and email. This adds an extra step to your login process and makes it much harder for hackers to gain access. Also, remember to update and reset your passwords on a regular basis and always delete any old, unused online accounts.
Keep your devices protected: Always keep your device software updated and use antivirus and internet security software. Webroot Premium protects your devices from malware, viruses and phishing attempts and provides identity protection so you’re immediately alerted if your information is leaked in a data breach or found on the dark web. If you do become a victim of identity theft, you’ll have 24/7 U.S.-based customer support and up to $1 million in expense reimbursement.
Update your identity protection plan: Remember to keep your identity protection plan updated, so your personal details like birthdate, Social Security number and driver’s license number are current. Make sure all your family members are onboarded, especially children and older relatives. Also, get real time fraud detection by setting up threshold alerts on your financial accounts so you’re notified of any suspicious transactions as soon as they occur.
Monitor constantly: It’s important to remember that even if your personal data was exposed years ago, it can still resurface and cause problems at any time. Especially when it comes to children and the elderly, suspicious financial activity can happen without their knowledge and go undetected. For example, it’s not uncommon for a young student to find out they have a poor credit score only when they to try to open their first credit card account. The student had no idea that a cybercriminal used their information for fraudulent purposes and is forced to go through a difficult and costly process to restore their good credit. Most identity protection plans include monitoring and remediation, even if the fraud happened years ago and is affecting you or your family today.
Data breaches are a fact of life in the digital world we live in, but you can protect yourself with some smart security measures. By using strong passwords, password managers, antivirus software, and identity protection plans, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime, and even get help to restore your identity, your financial losses and your reputation.
It’s like putting a lock on your personal data. When it comes to your sensitive information, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
For most of us, tax season is all about finding documents, filling out forms, and crossing your fingers you’re getting a refund. But while you’re busy trying to get your returns filed on time, tax scammers and identity thieves are busy trying to steal your precious personal information.
During tax season, a vast amount of valuable personal and financial data is shared online, making it prime time for cybercriminals to rob you of your confidential information, identity, and money. According to the IRS, almost 300,000 cases of identity theft were reported in 2024, leading to $5.5 billion in tax fraud. That’s why each year, the IRS releases its list of Dirty Dozen Tax Scams. Here are some of the top schemes you need to watch out for this tax season.
Common tax scams to watch out for in 2025
IRS Impersonation: The most common type of tax fraud starts with a phone call, text or email. The fraudster claims to be from the IRS and says you owe back taxes. They demand immediate payment, using threats of arrest, business or driver’s license suspension, or deportation. These scams often target vulnerable people, such as the elderly or immigrants, and take advantage of the fear and uncertainty many people have about tax returns. It’s easy to avoid these scams by remembering this important tip – the first time the IRS contacts you, it will be by U.S. mail only, never by phone, text or email!
Phishing emails and text messages: Phishing schemes can happen through emails, texts or social media. Scammers send messages to try to trick you into sharing sensitive information like W-2 forms, usernames, passwords, and account details. They sometimes offer big refunds or threaten to charge penalties. Never click links or open attachments in unsolicited messages, as they may contain malicious software. You can learn how to report suspected phishing here.
Tax Preparers Impersonators: Ghost tax return preparers pretend to be tax professionals, but they’re not actually certified. They may promise large or fast refunds to get your business. Impersonators often fill out your tax return, but then refuse to sign it or include their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), which is required by law. Sometimes they simply file a fraudulent return and take your money, leaving you liable for any false information and penalties.
Identity theft refund fraud: Scammers use your stolen data to file a fraudulent electronic tax return in your name. They collect a refund, and you may not even know you’ve been targeted until your own return is rejected. The best way to avoid tax refund fraud is to file your return early. If a criminal files first, reclaiming your refund can be a long and difficult process.
Warning signs of tax scams
Unexpected communications claiming to be from IRS: The IRS will never ask for sensitive information or payment via email, phone, text or social media.
Demands for immediate payment: The IRS will never demand immediate payment – you will always be given the opportunity to appeal a tax debt.
Threats of legal action or arrest: The IRS will not threaten you with police action or deportation.
Requests for unusual payment methods: The IRS doesn’t demand specific types of payment, including in-person payments, prepaid debit cards or gift cards.
Promises of unusually large refunds: If someone promises you a bigger-than-normal refund, be wary. You could be scammed into filing a fraudulent return and end up on the hook for any false claims.
How to protect yourself
Verify tax preparer credentials: Always use a trusted tax preparer to prepare your return.
Protect personal information: Treat your personal information as confidential files. Don’t carry your Social Security card with you and guard your tax records and other private data.
Know how the IRS communicates: Physical mail is the preferred form of messaging for the IRS. Always confirm the validity of any IRS communications.
Get antivirus protection for all your personal data: Webroot solutions safeguard against tax-related phishing scams, as well as viruses and malware designed to steal your private information.
Use identity protection:For tax season and every other season, Webroot Premium and Webroot Total Protection offer all-in-one device and identity protection to keep your valuable data safe from scammers. A single subscription can safeguard your entire digital life with dark web monitoring, rapid alerts regarding fraudulent activity, 24/7 customer support, and $1 million reimbursement for stolen funds and other expenses related to identity theft.
Back up your tax records: Make digital and physical backups of your tax documents. Store electronic copies in an encrypted cloud storage service and keep printed copies in a secure location. Carbonite is the perfect solution. It encrypts your tax documents and all your other data in the cloud and offers continuous backups and unlimited storage.
Imagine waking up one day to find that someone has stolen your identity, opened credit cards in your name, or even withdrawn money from your bank accounts. It’s something that can easily happen if your personal data falls into the hands of cybercriminals. In our interconnected world, data breaches and identity theft are a constant threat, making it more important than ever to guard your sensitive personal information. That’s why April 8th is Identity Management Day, a reminder to take steps to protect your digital identity from online threats.
So, what is your digital identity? It’s all the private data that’s gathered about you on the internet – from details like your email address, physical address, and date of birth, to bank account information and even purchasing habits. The more information you share online, the more vulnerable you become to cyber threats. For example, when you let a company save your address and credit card information, it may make your next online purchase easier, but it also increases the risk to your data if that company gets hacked. During the third quarter of 2024, data breaches exposed more than 422 million records worldwide.
Tips for protecting your data
Cyber thieves are getting smarter and smarter using methods like phishing and malware to gain access to a piece of your personal information. Once they have that they can use it to gain access to your digital life, commit fraud impersonating you, or sell it to others. That’s why staying diligent and protecting your online identity is critical. The best ways to do that are:
Strong passwords: The number one way to protect your personal information is the simplest one. Make your passwords long, complex, and unique. Never recycle them! That way if one of your passwords is leaked, hackers won’t be able to use it to access any of your other accounts.
Password managers: Of course, we all need many unique passwords and it’s tricky to keep track of them all, especially when they’re complicated and one-of-a-kind. That’s where a password manager comes in. All Webroot solutions such as Webroot Essentials include a password manager to keep your online safety simple. You only need to remember one password and Webroot manages the rest – keeping all your logins, passwords, and payment details organized and protected.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA): By adding an extra security step, like a code sent to your phone, multi-factor authentication (MFA) makes it much harder for cybercriminals to break into your accounts.
Identity protection services: Antivirus programs protect against a wide range of malicious software designed to steal your personal information. For unmatched security and support, Webroot Premium and Webroot Total Protection offer all-in-one protection and include real-time monitoring to safeguard you from identity theft, as well as bank and credit fraud.
Credit card fraud alerts: For extra security, set up fraud alerts by contacting your credit card company or any of the three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. Fraud alerts require creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening accounts and lines of credit in your name.
Bank account alerts: Set up bank account alerts to help monitor for any unusual banking activity. You can choose to get alerts via phone, email or text.
Credit card freeze: Consider putting a credit card freeze on any credit cards you’re not using. This puts a temporary hold on your card and prevents all purchases until you decide to unfreeze it.
Check bank statements: Review your bank statements monthly. Checking on your statements can help you spot suspicious activity and catch fraudulent transactions quickly.
Keeping your digital identity safe is not just a one-day event, it’s an ongoing commitment to protect your personal information. Identity Management Day serves as a valuable reminder to be proactive. From using MFA and strong passwords to setting up alerts on your credit cards and bank account, you can help safeguard your sensitive information. Don’t wait until you become a victim of identity theft – start strengthening your identity security today.
Our digital lives are filled with essential personal information, and it’s easy to forget how vulnerable all that data can be. But if your hard drive crashes, your laptop gets stolen, or you fall victim to cybercrime, the loss can be devastating. Your financial records, your work files, and even years of family photos can disappear in and instance. It’s a nightmare scenario that happens more often than you think. That’s why March 31st is World Backup Day, serving as a reminder that the right backup strategy can save you the frustration, cost, and the heartache of losing information that’s dear to you.
Backing up your data simply means creating copies of your important files and storing them in secure, encrypted locations. This ensures that even if something goes wrong and your data disappears, you’ll be able to recover it. Yet, many people don’t take these important steps to protect their digital lives. Despite all the risks, 20% of people rarely or never back up their data, leaving them vulnerable to irreversible loss.
Common causes of data loss
Human error: This is the number one cause of data loss, according to a report highlighted in PC World. Nobody’s perfect, and we all run the risk of accidents, from deleting files to spilling coffee on a laptop.
Hard drive failure: It happens! Hard drives are a great way to backup, but these devices can and do suffer data loss. Many hard drives fail in less than three years, and it’s been found that the newer drives have shorter lifespans than those manufactured before 2015.
Software corruption: When software or data is damaged, it can become unusable or unreadable. This can be caused by software bugs, hardware failures, viruses and malware, resulting in system crashes or data corruption.
Malware and ransomware attacks: Cybercriminals also deploy malware to lock, steal, or destroy your files. Ransomware is a type of malware that prevents you from accessing your files and demands a ransom for their return.
Natural disasters and theft: Threats like fires and floods, as well as burglaries and robberies, can lead to crippling data loss if all your information is stored in just one vulnerable place.
The 3-2-1 backup strategy
Avoiding common threats can be as easy as 1-2-3, or should we say 3-2-1? By using the 3-2-1 backup rule, you’ll give yourself comprehensive protection against the many forms of potential data loss.
3 Copies: always keep three copies of your data- your original plus two backups.
2 Different Media Types: Store your backups on two different types of media – for example, use an external hard drive and a cloud storage service, like Carbonite. Using encryption is also crucial for protecting against data loss because it transforms sensitive information into an unreadable format.
1 Offsite Backup: Keep at least one backup in a different physical location, like a separate worksite or a safety deposit box.
Backup options to consider
External hard drives These are great for local backups, but can be vulnerable to theft, damage, and hardware failure.
Cloud backup services Look for cloud-based solutions that offer encrypted, automatic, and unlimited backup to ensure files are always protected. Carbonite makes it easy to continuously and securely backup all your data with 128-byte protection. And because all backups are stored offsite, in the cloud, you can easily access them anytime, anyplace, and restore them with just a click.
Network-attached storage A network attached storage (NAS) device is a dedicated file storage system connected to a network, which enables data sharing across various devices.
Why backing up is essential
Protects your important data from hardware failure, cyber-attacks, and accidental deletion.
Ensures that your valuable data is encrypted, secure, and accessible when you need it.
Saves you the time, money and stress associated with attempting to recover lost data.
Preserves your cherished personal memories, like photos and videos, from being lost forever.
Helps maintain business continuity by offering a quick recovery from data loss.
Offers businesses resiliency and compliance across their organization.
Backup action plan
✅ Test your backups regularly: Check that your files are retrievable on a regular basis.
✅ Set a backup schedule: Automate the frequency of your backups according to your needs.
✅ Create a backup strategy: Prioritize which documents, photos, and databases need protection first.
✅ Create a disaster recovery plan: Outline steps for restoring data in case of an emergency.
✅ Use antivirus protection: Secure your system with antivirus protection to prevent malware and ransomware attacks.
✅ Use an offsite, secure, and unlimited solution like Carbonite for cloud backup:
Automatic and continuous backup: No need to manually backup files
End-to-end encryption: Keeps your data private and protected
Easy file recovery: Restores lost or deleted files with just a few clicks
Multiple device support: Protects desktops, laptops, and external drives
Take the World Backup Day pledge
There’s never been a better time to make backing up your data part of your routine. Make a promise to protect yourself today by taking this official pledge. “I solemnly swear to backup my important documents and precious memories on March 31st.” Then take a few simple steps to get started.
Backing up your files isn’t just about security, it’s about peace of mind. This World Backup Day, start building your own good backup habits. Protect your files and photos and finances now, because if disaster strikes you may never see them again. Consider this your wakeup call to make data protection a priority. Your future self will surely thank you!
March is a time for leprechauns and four-leaf clovers, and as luck would have it, it’s also a time to learn how to protect your private data from cybercrime. Each year, the first week of March (March 2-8) is recognized as National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). During this time, many government agencies and consumer protection organizations come together to help educate consumers on how to keep their personal and financial information secure.
The event is sponsored by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and other participating agencies include the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), AARP, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). This month, take advantage of all that NCPW offers, including access to free tools and information that can help you identify and prevent online scams, fraud, and identity theft.
The growing risks to your data
During the third quarter of 2024, data breaches exposed more than 422 million records worldwide. Millions of customers were put at risk when their social security numbers, phone numbers, and other sensitive personal information were leaked.
The most common causes of leaks were operating system (OS) flaws and weaknesses on devices like computers and phones. For example, when a user forgets to log out before they leave their computer, it can open the door for cybercriminals to steal information. In fact, it’s estimated that careless users are responsible for about 70% of sensitive data loss.
Common attacks to consumer protection
Identity theft and fraud Some common types of identity theft and fraud include account takeover fraud, when criminals use stolen personal information such as account numbers, usernames, or passwords to hijack bank accounts, credit cards, and even email and social media accounts.
Online shopping scams An online shopping scam usually involves a fake online store or app, which appears legitimate and is promoted on social media or other authentic websites.
Financial fraud With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), financial fraud tactics are growing more sophisticated, and sadly, they often target older people. For example, grandparent scams happen when someone who sounds like a grandchild or other relative contacts an older person and asks them to send money via wire transfer to help get them out of trouble. Scammers use AI to clone voices, which helps them convince you that you’re sending money to a family member who desperately needs your help.
Medical identity theft Medical identity theft happens when someone steals or uses your personal information like your name, Social Security number, or Medicare details, to get healthcare in your name. This kind of fraud can disrupt your medical care and cost a lot of money to resolve.
Social engineering attacks Social engineering attacks occur when someone uses a fake persona to gain your trust. They deceive you into divulging confidential information so they can steal your money. Contact is usually made through social media, by phone or in person.
How to protect yourself and your data
Smart ways to secure your devices
Strong passwords – Make them long, random, and unique.
Password managers – Automatically generate and store strong passwords.
Credit monitoring services – Keep an eye on your credit for you.
Fraud alerts and credit freezes – Protect you from identity theft.
Secure payment methods – Ensure safe processing of financial transactions.
Protect your identity – Webroot Premium provides identity protection for up to 10 identities, including financial account and credit monitoring, and dark web monitoring.
Beware before you share
Phishing scams – Avoid clicking on malicious links in emails and social media.
Unsolicited calls or emails – Be wary about sharing personal details with people you do not know.
Make sure businesses and organizations are legitimate – Confirm you’re dealing with a trusted source.
Data minimization strategies – Provide the least number of private details necessary when filling out forms or answering questionnaires .
Social media privacy – Avoid sharing personal information on social media.
Document disposal – Shred sensitive documents.
Backup solutions – Carbonite automatically backs up and protects your data.
It takes more than good luck to protect your private data and finances from cybercriminals, so be sure to grab this opportunity to learn more about staying safe from online fraud.
Nearly every aspect of life is connected to the internet, so protecting your devices, identity, and privacy has never been more critical. Cyber threats are no longer just the occasional virus or suspicious email. Phishing scams, ransomware attacks, data breaches, and identity theft are part of a growing list of online dangers that are a daily reality.
For over 25 years, Webroot has been on the front lines of cybersecurity, protecting millions of people and businesses from evolving threats. What began as antivirus product has expanded into a comprehensive portfolio to secure your entire digital life. With our all-in-one solutions, we’ve created a new standard for digital security—because safeguarding your devices, data, and identity in an increasingly interconnected world is not optional, it’s essential.
Let’s explore how Webroot has evolved to become your one-stop shop for all things cybersecurity.
Introducing Webroot Total Protection: Comprehensive security for the modern world
When you think about cybersecurity, you probably think of antivirus protection—and rightly so. But as technology advances, so do the threats. Today, your personal information, online activities, financial data, and even your family’s privacy are targets for attack.
That’s why Webroot has gone beyond traditional antivirus solutions to create Webroot Total Protection, a powerful all-in-one security suite that provides everything you need to stay safe online.
What is Total Protection?
Total Protection is a robust, comprehensive solution that safeguards not just your devices but also your online identity, files, and privacy. It combines multiple security capabilities into one easy-to-use package that includes:
Antivirus protection Detects and neutralizes viruses, malware, spyware, and ransomware.
Password Manager Ensures your passwords are strong and secure, while also making them easy to access and manage.
Identity protection Guards against identity theft by monitoring your personal information and alerting you to potential breaches.
VPN (Virtual Private Network) Protects your privacy while browsing online, ensuring your data isn’t intercepted or tracked.
Secure backup Keeps your critical files safe from data loss or ransomware attacks.
Parental controls Helps you protect your family by limiting access to inappropriate or harmful content online.
With Total Protection, you can confidently navigate the digital world, knowing your devices, identity, family, and personal data are secure every step of the way.
What does Webroot Essentials include?
Webroot Essentials provides foundational protection against today’s most common cyber threats, including:
Antivirus and anti-malware Detects and neutralizes viruses, malware, spyware, and ransomware.
Browser protection Keeps you safe while you browse and shop online, surf the web, and connect on social media.
Anti-phishing protection Shields you from phishing attempts.
Password Manager Helps you securely store and manage your login credentials.
With Webroot Essentials, you get exactly what you need to protect yourself, your devices, and your personal information—all in a package that’s simple to use and designed for everyday security.
The benefits of Webroot Total Protection and Essentials
The internet has become an integral part of everyday life. From online shopping and banking to remote work and social media, most of us spend a significant portion of our lives connected. While this connectivity brings convenience, it also comes with risks. Cybercrime is increasing at an alarming rate, targeting individuals and families just as often as businesses. Some of the most common threats include:
Phishing involves fraudulent emails or websites designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information.
Identity theft happens when criminals steal your personal information to commit fraud or theft.
Ransomware encrypts your files and demands payment to release them.
Data breaches occur when hackers gain unauthorized access to and steal sensitive files and information.
Viruses and malware programs harm your devices or steal your data.
As these threats become more sophisticated, having robust, multi-layered protection is essential. That’s why Webroot is dedicated to constant innovation, delivering advanced solutions that stay ahead of cybercriminals and adapt to the ever-changing digital landscape to keep you safe.
Protection for your growing number of devices With the growing number of devices in every household—laptops, smartphones, tablets, and more—it’s crucial to have security that can keep up. Webroot offers packages designed to cover multiple devices, so you can keep your entire household protected.
Dedicated to innovation New threats emerge daily. Backed by a dedication to constant innovation, Webroot’s solutions leverage advanced technology to detect and neutralize threats in real time, ensuring you stay protected from cyber-attacks before they can do harm.
Peace of mind for families Features like parental controls and identity protection give families an added layer of security, so parents can rest easy knowing their children are safe online.
Powerful data protection With secure backup included in Total Protection, you don’t have to worry about losing important files to ransomware, malware, or accidental deletion.
Effective antivirus protection In an era where cyber threats are constantly evolving, some people might wonder: Is antivirus protection still necessary? The answer is a resounding yes. Viruses and malware are still very real dangers, and strong protection remains the cornerstone of any good cybersecurity strategy. Webroot’s antivirus technology is constantly updated to protect against the latest threats, and it works seamlessly with our other security tools to provide comprehensive protection.
A trusted name in cybersecurity Webroot has spent over two decades perfecting our products, earning the trust of millions of users around the world. Whether you’re a tech-savvy professional or a casual user, we’re here to make security simple and effective.
Protect Your digital life with Webroot
Webroot has spent 25 years adapting to the ever-changing cybersecurity needs, and we’re not stopping anytime soon. With our all-in-one solutions like Webroot Total Protection and Webroot Essentials, we’re proud to offer powerful, easy-to-use tools that meet the demands of your modern digital life.
Whether you’re looking to safeguard your devices, protect your family, or secure your online identity, Webroot has you covered. Because in a world where cyber threats never rest, neither do we.
Cyber threats. Identity theft. Online profiling. Financial fraud. Social media misuse. The list just gets longer. As more aspects of our lives move online and digital devices proliferate, staying safe from threats has become more important than ever.
Consider all the connected devices you use for daily tasks—browsing, shopping, banking, gaming, and more. Then think about all the content that you share on these devices every day; much of it likely contains sensitive or critical information that, in the wrong hands, could lead to serious damage with long-lasting impact.
The solution? Comprehensive digital protection. Webroot Total Protection is the latest release in our Customer Digital Life Protection strategy that checks all the boxes. It’s a top-end, true all-in-one offering based on a new platform that combines antivirus, password manager, identity protection, VPN, backup, and parental controls.
1. Protect your devices from viruses
How confident are you that your digital music, photos, and important documents—as well as email and applications—are safe? Cybercriminals are constantly developing new malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks that can steal identities, encrypt memorable family photos and documents for ransom, and turn home computers into devices that criminals take over to send spam or steal data.
Effective security software shields you from worms, trojans, adware, and more. And it protects not just your PC and laptop, but also your tablets, smartphones, and other digital devices.
Comprehensive antivirus software is most effective when used in conjunction with security best practices. Here are a few:
Make sure your antivirus software performs scans regularly
Install the latest security patches for your operating systems
Keep your antivirus software up to date
Be careful when downloading new apps onto devices; only download from app stores you trust
Regularly backup important data
2. Protect your privacy in your online activities
Sharing information has become commonplace in our digital lives. From purchasing a plane ticket to opening a bank account and registering to vote, or simply doing your grocery shopping online, getting through the day without sharing at least some personal information online seems nearly impossible.
The flip side to this convenience, however, is that we risk losing control over who can access our personal information. Malicious actors are constantly seeking to collect personal data to commit fraud, steal identities, harass and threaten individuals, and more.
Protecting privacy is a top priority for families facing growing threats. Password managersgenerate strong, unique passwords and simplify their use, protecting you and saving time by automatically filling in credentials for website and app logins. Besides, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) that establishes secure connections to public Wi-Fi hotspots by encrypting data transmission will keep you safe and anonymous when you’re away from home.
By paying attention to your device settings you can take steps to protect your privacy across your digital life:
Social media: Choose who can see your posts, photos, and personal information and review these settings regularly. Set your default sharing settings to “friends” or a more restricted group rather than “public.” Check which third-party apps have access to your account and remove those you no longer use.
Mobile devices: Disable location, camera, microphone, and contact list access for apps that don’t truly need them. Consider turning off location services when not needed and review which apps track your location in the background.
Web browsers: Clear your browsing history and cookies regularly, block third-party cookies, and enable “do not track” features. Review and manage which sites can send you notifications, access your location, or use your camera/microphone.
Smart home devices: Review privacy settings for voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home regularly. Check what data these devices collect and adjust accordingly.
Email services: Keep tabs on apps and services that have access to your email account. Adjust spam filter settings to your preferences.
Operating systems: Check your privacy settings to control app permissions, data access, and tracking features.
3. Safeguard your identity and private information
Once only seen in spy movies, identity theft today is very real, and poses serious financial, legal, and personal consequences. Bad actors can drain your bank accounts, open fraudulent credit cards, take out loans, file false tax returns, obtain medical services in your name, and more. The results range from damaged credit and mounting debt to inaccurate medical records and reputation damage.
Some steps you can take to protect your identity include:
Monitoring financial activity: Check bank and credit card statements each month for unauthorized charges. Set up alerts for unusual transactions and review your credit reports.
Securing personal information: Only share Social Security numbers, birth dates, or account numbers when absolutely necessary. Shred or securely dispose of documents containing sensitive information and keep important documents in a secure location.
Be wary of scams: You shouldn’t respond to unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts requesting personal information—legitimate organizations typically won’t ask for sensitive details through these channels.
Consider additional protection: Identity theft protection services monitor your credit and personal information for suspicious activity and alert you to anomalies. Many will also reimburse up to $1 million for fraud expenses, stolen funds, and related costs such as lawyer and expert fees, lost wages, private investigator charges, and additional childcare or eldercare. They can also help you re-establish your identity—on average it takes 200 hours to restore an identity after fraud.
How does an identity protection plan work?
Usually such services include a secure online portal where you can register your personal data, like date of birth, driver’s license, SSN, account numbers, and more. Once you subscribe, make sure to take the time to create your profile and that of your family members, so you can start getting identity health reports and rapid alerts right away in case anything fraudulent is detected!
If identity theft does happen, freeze any accounts with fraudulent charges and establish a fraud alert with credit bureaus. You can file an official identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. Contact relevant organizations, such as the Social Security Administration if your SSN was stolen. Close compromised accounts and open new ones with different account numbers, and new passwords and PINs.
If you think the process of restoring your identity after theft is daunting, rest assure that cybersecurity or insurance companies offer identity protection plans that include the help of a remediation expert, who can guide you through the process. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of identity theft laws, credit reporting procedures, fraud resolution practices, and how to interact with various institutions to resolve issues effectively.
Protect the data, document and precious memories stored on your devices
Theft isn’t the only threat to data – consider the impact that hardware failures, coffee spills, and accidental deletions can have on favorite photos, digital memories, and other unreplaceable items. This is where data encryption and automated backups come in.
Data encryption protects data by translating it into a different, unreadable form using an encryption key. When it’s in that encrypted form, only someone with the unique decryption key or password can translate the data back into its readable state. Encryption is one of the most effective and widely used forms of data security available.
With automated backup you can create a backup schedule that you can set and forget. Back-up files are typically uploaded to the cloud so they are accessible from anywhere. Changes that you make on your files are reflected in the backup ones.
Data protection best practices include:
Follow the 3-2-1 backup rule: three copies of data, on two different types of media, with one copy off-site
Test restore procedures regularly
Keep encryption keys and passwords secure but accessible
Monitor backup logs and storage capacity
Regularly update backup software for security patches
You may already be protected in one or several of these areas, but how could you make sure you truly have comprehensive protection?
Introducing Webroot Total Protection
With the mounting threats out there, it’s time to consider comprehensive digital protection so you can rest easy that your devices are safe and your content, identity, and privacy are protected. Webroot Total Protection empowers families to enjoy their digital life to the fullest by protecting connected devices, documents, best memories, online transactions, and identities in a way that’s flexible and affordable. Learn more about what Webroot Total Protection can do for your digital life.
