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Mastercard security boss reveals key tips for avoiding a cyberattack

Mr Gerber says consumers should pause to question unusual offers
Mr Gerber says consumers should pause to question unusual offers (Alamy/PA)
  • Several companies, including the Co-op and Marks & Spencer, experienced cyberattacks in May, resulting in stolen customer data.
  • Mastercard's Johan Gerber advises consumers to be diligent and pause to question unusual offers to protect their finances.
  • Mr Gerber acknowledges the difficulty of pausing in a fast-paced world but suggests extra confirmation steps for transactions to ensure company protection.
  • Ofcom now requires phone providers to block international calls that imitate UK numbers to combat “number spoofing”.
  • Families are advised to create a safe word to verify identity due to scams like impersonation texts or AI-generated voice calls, and businesses should invest in cyber security and collaboration.
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