GOOGLE’S NEW DEFENSE AGAINST SCAMS

Google on Wednesday rolled out a new program to combat scams related to the COVID-19 pandemic as attempted cyberattacks and phishing scams have spiked during the crisis.

The new “Scam Spotter” program, co-created with the Cybercrime Support Network, recommends a three-step process for individuals to consider before handing over personal information through a phone call or email.

The program also tests the ability of an individual to spot a scam, gives examples of common ones such as those pretending to be from a government agency or bank and provides resources to report any scams to the Federal Trade Commission.

Google Vice President Vint Cerf wrote in a blog post that combating scams would take a “cross-generational effort” due to the tendency of seniors to fall for them more than younger generations.

“I’m the biggest advocate for communications technology you’ll ever meet, which is why I care so much that everyone’s online experience be safe and fun,” Cerf wrote. “If we learn how to spot the bad actors, we can spend our time focusing on those moments that matter.”

Scams and cyberattacks have spiked during the coronavirus pandemic. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center said last month that it had received about 3,600 complaints related to coronavirus scams, and the IRS has warned of scams targeting coronavirus relief checks.