The bait is set...

Retroviral's campaign for Liberty warns SA against 'financial fears' (Image supplied)

From scams and loan sharks to debt spirals and bad investments, Liberty is giving Mzansi a heads up that the scariest financial moments are often the most preventable.

The bait is set

The bait is set... the inbox is calm.. then… PHISH!

This Halloween, the monster isn’t hiding under your bed; it’s hiding in your inbox. A too-good-to-be-true offer, a link from your “bank,” or a sudden alert that your password has expired.

One click, and suddenly, the sharks are circling.

Phishing scams are getting smarter, and South Africans are increasingly in the crosshairs.

In fact, cyber-criminals use seasonal events (like the holidays) to cast their widest nets.

The result? Compromised accounts, drained savings, and weeks of financial chaos.

Don’t feed the phishers

Protect yourself by staying alert to the tell-tale signs:

• Check the sender’s address - small spelling errors are big red flags
  
• Never click on links or attachments from unknown sources
  
• Watch out for urgency or fear tactics
• Scammers love a “limited-time offer”
  
• If you’re ever unsure, contact the company directly through verified channels

Take control of your own financial story

Use this moment to check in on your own financial well-being.

Avoid financial horrors this Summer. Like the old adage says, "if it's too good to be true, it probably is".