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Social media users are being warned to protect their personal data and prevent spear phishing scams. Criminals are using social media as a tool to craft personalised communications to individuals in an attempt to exploit money and personal data from them. Fraud is the most prevalent crime in the UK with millions of pounds lost every day, according to CEL Solicitors.
What are spear phishing scams as expert issues warning? Paul Hampson, fraud expert and CEO of CEL Solicitors , said: “Spear phishing is a highly personalised and targeted scam, unlike other phishing attempts where a wide net is cast. Spear phishing scams see victims' personal data used by criminals (Image: Canva) “Using information on hobbies, jobs , relationships, holidays and date of birth, criminals can create a convincing scam to lure in victims. “In this approach, we’ve seen scammers pose as a trusted colleague, a service provider or even a friend.
They use real names, job titles and other personal information to manipulate their target. “They often create a sense of urgency such as a fake request from a boss or an email from your bank claiming suspicious activity. “The more realistic the scam appears, the more likely the victim is to respond without thinking.
” As well as individuals being targeted, businesses can also find their employees are on the receiving end of spear phishing attempts. Mr Hampson added: “This precise approach is more time-consuming for criminals so they’re likely to choose targets that they feel could be high reward. “Social media is brimming with information that criminal organisations can use to gather intel to carry out a spear phishing scam.
How to avoid scams “Limiting what you share online is your best defence against this scam. Or ensure you understand the privacy settings on your account so you know what you’re sharing and who you’re sharing it with.” Verifying unexpected or suspicious messages is also crucial.
A quick phone call to your bank, colleague or whoever has supposedly contacted you could save you from being a victim of fraud. “Be cautious even if it’s someone you have as a contact on social media. There has been a spike in accounts being hacked by scammers in order to exploit their connections,” Mr Hampson said.
“Email accounts, both personal and professional, can also be hacked. Ensuring you have multi-factor authentication can ensure your accounts aren’t used to swindle your friends, family and colleagues, too.” Recommended reading: Santander issues 2025 scam warning to all customers after worrying rise DWP issues urgent warning to claimants which could 'deprive disabled people' Warning to motorists after 'huge spike' in dangerous driving incidents What is multi-factor authentication? Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security tool that verifies an individual’s identity when trying to sign into an account.
It requires a secondary confirmation such as a code sent via email or text to another device. It prevents others from gaining access to an account even if they have login details. What to do if you’re a victim of a spear phishing scam Mr Hampson said: “If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a spear phishing scam, contact your bank immediately and change any passwords you might have shared.
“You should report the scam to Action Fraud. If someone you know was impersonated, let them know as they might be able to prevent it happening to someone else. “Notify your workplace’s IT department if the scam was linked to your job, and inform any colleagues that might be affected, too.
“The quicker you act, the better you can limit the damage.”.
