Opinion: Be vigilant for online scammers, predators

During the pandemic, 48% of children in the US are spending more than six hours a day in front of a screen – a nearly 500% increase from before the crisis – according to a survey conducted by the advocacy group ParentsTogether. — AFP Relaxnews

You don’t have to wander over to the dark web to find bad actors with malicious intent lurking online. The FBI, US state Attorney General’s Office and Buffalo’s US Attorney have been broadcasting reminders about scammers who are stepping up their game during the coronavirus pandemic.

Predators are trying to separate adults from their money, or children from their innocence. While there are technological security protocols and products to help keep the bad guys away, putting common sense to use is the best firewall.