In this episode: social engineering, pig butchering, cryptocurrency risks, scammer tactics, and avoiding being a victim.

This week Brad speaks with cyber security expert Tom who will be giving some updates on the landscape of cybersecurity, what targeted scams look like, as well as some actionable steps you can take to avoid these scams. Though it may seem that cybersecurity attacks are ever-evolving and may be harder and harder to avoid, there are ways to make yourself less vulnerable to attacks. Making sure you’re having open conversations about this topic with your friends, and especially your older family members is crucial and can make sure you avoid falling for these scams!

🔑 Key Themes Discussed:

The rise of social engineering scams and how they manipulate victims
“Pig Butchering” scams: how scammers build trust, then steal your money
How cryptocurrency is used in scams and the risks involved
Recognizing investment scams and protecting yourself from fraud
The emotional and psychological tactics scammers use to isolate victims
The role of AI and fake profiles in advanced scams
Actionable steps to avoid becoming a victim
The importance of spreading awareness to protect your family and friends
Reporting scams and what to do if you’ve been a victim

🕒 Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Overview of Cybersecurity Threats
02:00 – What is Pig Butchering and How it Works
04:00 – Investment Scams and Social Engineering Explained
06:00 – How Scammers Build Relationships and Gain Trust
08:00 – Examples of Scams: Dating Apps, Fake Profiles, and Social Media
12:00 – Cryptocurrency in Scams: What to Watch Out For
16:00 – The Role of AI and Deepfakes in Cyber Scams
18:00 – Personal Stories: Victims Who Lost Everything
22:00 – Action Steps: How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones
27:00 – How to Report Scams and Recover Funds
29:00 – Recognizing Scams in Everyday Life: Red Flags and Signals
34:00 – Final Thoughts and Preventative Tips

🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources:

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances
CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account
M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing
CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards
Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points
Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off)
Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)
Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

515 | Cyber Security Update: Social Engineering & Pig Butchering

ChooseFI | Financial Independence Podcast

515 | Cyber Security Update: Social Engineering & Pig Butchering