Updating your software, creating strong passwords, enabling multi-factor login authentication, and recognizing phishing attempts are just some of the ways you can protect yourself from cybercrime. Wisconsin has designated October Cybersecurity Awareness Month in the state as a way to raise awareness on the ways people can protect themselves in an ever-evolving, digitally connected world. According to the FBI, Americans lost nearly $7 billion to cybercrime in 2021 with older residents facing the biggest losses. Business email compromise is becoming one of the fastest-growing phishing scams in the country, with frazzled employees clicking on misleading links or connecting scammers with important information. FTS Technology Group owner Ryan Hoffmann says scammers thrive on the chaos they create by catching you with your emotions high and your common sense low.

While small businesses may be more vulnerable, recent cyber-attacks on Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS), MGM Resorts International, and Caesars Entertainment show anyone can be susceptible to being affected. Hoffman added that it is a constant circle of cybersecurity technology catching up only to be hacked by the latest scam.