Cyber crimes on the rise: How to protect yourself

In a 2016 Identity Fraud Study, released by Javelin Strategy & Research, about $15 billion was stolen from 13.1 million U.S. consumers in 2015, compared with $16 billion and 12.7 million victims a year earlier. In the past six years, identity thieves have stolen $112 billion.

While it’s often a faceless crime, cyber crimes are affecting more and more Americans and businesses each day.

According to LMG Security COO Karen Sprenger, 3 in 5 Americans are a victim of some form of cybercrime.

Sprenger who traveled from Missoula Montana spoke at the Idaho Falls Security Awareness Conference Wednesday. She gave tips to local business owners on how they can better protect their businesses and clients.

Sprenger said whether you’re a small business or a large corporation having your bases covered is a must.

Janelle Goldman who’s operates Hammon Services in Idaho Falls, said the one simple step she learned from the conference is to better train her staff in house.

Sprenger also informed people about email phishing and how easy it is to become a victim of it in a matter of seconds.