Description

Episode Summary: 

Cybercrime is advancing at an alarming rate, impacting both personal lives and professional industries—including public relations. Karen Swim, APR of Solo PR Pro and Michelle Kane of Voice Matters explore the latest tactics scammers are using, from phishing emails to fraudulent links, and how PR professionals can protect themselves and their clients in this evolving digital landscape. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Personal tips to guard against scams like phishing texts, spoofed calls, and fraudulent emails. 
• Why vigilance is key for protecting private information and financial assets. 
• How PR professionals can ensure their campaigns and communications build trust and avoid looking suspicious to audiences. 
• Tools and best practices for managing online safety, such as masking your email and avoiding suspicious links. 
• Insight into building trustworthy client relationships in a world full of online threats. 

Memorable Moments: 

• Michelle’s bank fraud story: How trusting her instincts helped her avoid a scam. 
• Karen’s best advice: “Never answer unknown numbers. Call back the verified line instead.” 
• Top tip for PR pros: Ensure your links and downloads are hosted on client websites to build credibility and assure safety. 

• 00:00:00 - Introduction to Online Fraud 
• 00:00:42 - Personal Experience with Scams 
• 00:01:40 - Best Practices for Handling Unknown Calls 
• 00:02:40 - The Rise of Cyber Attacks 
• 00:03:40 - Protecting Your Personal Information 
• 00:04:40 - The Importance of Trust in Communication 
• 00:05:40 - Navigating Links and Downloads Safely 
• 00:06:40 - Building Trust with Your Audience 
• 00:07:40 - Avoiding Scams in Promotions 
• 00:08:40 - Vigilance in Everyday Life 
• 00:09:40 - Resources for Staying Informed 
• 00:10:40 - Conclusion and Call to Action

Resources / Links Mentioned: 

• Know to Protect - Toolkit for tips to stay safe online
• Krebs on Security - Security expert that shares information on security threats
• Shelley DeMotte Kramer - technology expert who shares digestible insights on cybercrime and security trends.
• The Hacker News - Good news source for cyberthreats
• CSO online - News and info site for CSOs, but good place to keep up
• What is Two-Factor Authentication - TechTarget
• Apps and services for masking phone numbers and email addresses. 
  • The Opt-Out Project - services and steps for cybercleansing
  • Burner App - can set up multiple “burner” numbers on your cell that allow you to call and send from your cell phone
  • Apple Hide My Email

Have you or your clients been affected by cybercrime? Share your experiences in the comments or on social media to help others stay one step ahead. And if you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to share it with your colleagues and fellow PR professionals. 

Listen Now: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Solo PR

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