Olney

Protect Yourself from Scams!

Hi everyone,

 

We're reaching out today to address a recent attempt to phish Freecycle members. Some of you may have received messages claiming to be from moderators and including a link to click.

 

Here's a reminder:

 

Freecycle is always FREE. You should never be asked to pay for anything, including delivery fees or processing costs.

 

We will never send private messages with links. Our communication will happen through Freecycle's messaging system or public announcements.

 

Be cautious of unknown links. Don't click on anything suspicious, even if it appears to come from a familiar source. Scammers are good at mimicking email addresses and usernames.

 

Here's what to do if you receive a suspicious message:

Do not click on any links.

 

Report the message. 

 

Delete the message.

 

General Online Safety Tips:

Be wary of unsolicited messages or calls. Legitimate companies rarely reach out through unexpected contacts.

 

Verify senders. If a message appears to be from a bank, credit card company, or another known entity, don't click on links within the message. Instead, log in to your account directly through the official website (not a link in the message) to check for updates or communications.

 

Strong passwords are key. Use unique and complex passwords for all your online accounts. Consider a password manager to help you create and store strong passwords securely.

 

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, like a code from your phone, to log in.

 

Keep your software up to date. Updates often include security patches to protect against vulnerabilities.

 

Beware of phishing websites. Scammers can create websites that look legitimate. Check the web address carefully for any misspellings or irregularities.

 

Remember, you can always contact us!

Our moderators are here to help. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to send us a message through Freecycle.

 

Thank you for being a part of the Freecycle community!

 

By working together, we can keep Freecycle and the online world a safer place for everyone.

 

Sincerely,

The Freecycle Moderation Team