Our healthcare, public institutions, and even our home computers are under constant attack, and the problem is getting bigger every day.

You should delete any message that seems suspicious – and don’t attempt to correct “errors” through contact information in an email. What do I mean by that?

1. Invoice attached – do not open or respond to bogus invoices
2. Package delayed – do not open or respond to bogus reports from UPS, FedEx, Amazon, or USPS
3. Nigerian bankers – yes, they are still going around, and still do not have $10,000,000 for you
4. Receipt of payment – if you didn’t buy it, then the receipt you just received is fake

All of these emails are designed to elicit an emotional response from you and get you to reply. Once you do, by phone or email, they will manipulate you into giving them personal information. Even if you don’t get “hooked” by their scam, any information you give them can be used in a future attempt to defraud you or your relatives and friends.

Here are some of the most recent headlines regarding hackers:

• Minneapolis Public Schools
• United Healthcare
• US Critical Infrastructure

If you believe someone has charged your credit card fraudulently, contact your credit card company directly through the number printed on the back of your card. Do not try to contact the fraudsters.