https://www.impactradio.co.za/ Tune in to Cyber Sense, your essential weekly briefing on South Africa's digital frontline. With Declan Hardie, and every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103, we cut through the noise to bring you clear, actionable insights into the local cybersecurity landscape. From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control. Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time. Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. Education en Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:41:28 +0200 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:12:16 +0200 30 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss iono.fm 2.5.2.0 Impact 103 no Declan Hardie Weekly feeds@iono.fm (Feed Manager) https://cdn.iono.fm/files/p2872/logo_9703_20260210_144652_1400.jpeg https://www.impactradio.co.za/ Tune in to Cyber Sense, your essential weekly briefing on South Africa's digital frontline. Impact 103 episodic Impact 103 rss+2872+9703@iono.fm false ZA https://iono.fm/e/1667779 https://iono.fm/e/1667779 Criminals trick your mobile provider into swapping your SIM to their phone. Suddenly, your phone goes dead – and they have access to your banking OTPs and verification codes.

Your SIM Swap Survival Plan:

ADD A SIM SWAP PIN TODAY. Call your provider right now and set up a PIN or password required for any SIM swap.

Vodacom: Ask for "SIM Swap Protect"

MTN: Ask for "SIM Swap Lock"

Cell C / Telkom: Ask for account PIN protection

DON'T OVERSHARE ONLINE. Keep your ID number, birthday, and personal details private. Criminals use this to impersonate you.

ACT FAST IF YOUR PHONE GOES DEAD. Sudden signal loss? Call your provider immediately from another phone. Ask if a SIM swap just happened.

USE AUTHENTICATOR APPS, NOT SMS. Use Google Authenticator or your bank's app for one-time pins instead of SMS. These are tied to your phone, not your SIM.

If You Get SIM-Swapped:

Call your bank's fraud line immediately.

Call your mobile provider to reverse the swap.

Change all passwords from a secure device.

Open a case at SAPS.

Bottom Line: A 5-minute call to your provider today could save your life savings tomorrow.

Stay safe out there!
- Declan Hardie, Cyber Sense CyberSense Website]]> Education Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:10:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 21 - Sim Swap Scam 0 0 Declan Hardie full 4:09 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1665392?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1665392?v=1 Fake SARS messages are everywhere. Here's how to protect your tax information.

Your SARS Safety Plan:

KNOW HOW SARS CONTACTS YOU.

SARS will never send a link asking for your PIN, password, or banking details.

SARS communicates mainly through eFiling—you log in yourself to check messages.

NEVER CLICK LINKS IN TAX MESSAGES.

Got an SMS or email about a refund or payment? Don't click anything.

Open your browser, type sarsefiling.co.za manually, and log in to check.

VERIFY ANY PAYMENT REQUEST.

Scammers demand eWallet or direct bank transfers to fake "SARS accounts."

SARS does not collect payments that way. Log into eFiling to see your real balance.

BEWARE OF UNEXPECTED REFUNDS.

A random R5,000 refund out of nowhere? That's a trap.

Check eFiling first. No refund there? Delete the message.

REPORT SUSPICIOUS MESSAGES.

Forward fake emails to: Phishing@sars.gov.za

Forward fake SMSes to: 33600

This helps SARS track and shut down scammers.

If You Already Clicked and Shared Details:

Call your bank's fraud hotline immediately.

Change your eFiling password from a clean, different device.

Call SARS fraud hotline: 0800 00 2870

Open a case at your local SAPS.

Key Numbers to Save Now:

SARS Fraud Hotline: 0800 00 2870

Report Phishing Emails: Phishing@sars.gov.za

Report Phishing SMS: 33600

Bottom Line: SARS will never ask for your PIN or banking details via a link. Log into eFiling directly to check any claim.

Stay safe out there!
- Declan Hardie, Impact 103 ]]> Education Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:18:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 20 - SARS Tax Scam 0 0 Declan Hardie full 4:41 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1660343?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1660343?v=1 Fake stores and fraudulent sellers are everywhere. Here's how to protect your money.
Your Safe Shopper Checklist:
VERIFY THE SELLER.
How old is their Facebook page or profile?
Do reviews look real or are they all posted on the same day?
For Bob Shop, Takealot, etc.—check seller ratings and history.

PAY SAFELY—NO EXCUSES.
DO NOT pay by direct EFT or eWallet to unknown sellers.
DO use PayFast, SnapScan, or a credit card with buyer protection.
If a seller says "PayFast is down, just send via EFT"—walk away.

IGNORE FALSE URGENCY.
"50% off! Last chance!" is a pressure tactic.
Legitimate deals will still be there tomorrow.
Take time to research before you pay.

DON'T PAY FOR "FREE" ITEMS.
"Free couch—just pay delivery fee" is a common scam.
Free means free. If there's a fee, it's not free.

TRUST YOUR GUT.
Too good to be true? It is.
Seller rushing you? Red flag.
No physical address? Walk away.

If You Get Scammed:
Call your bank immediately.
Report to the platform (Facebook, Bob Shop, etc.).
Open a case at SAPS.
Warn your community—share the scam details.

Bottom Line: In South Africa, online shopping is safe when you verify first and pay safely.
Stay safe out there!
- Declan Hardie, Impact 103 ]]> Education Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:10:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 19 - Online Shopping Scams 0 0 Declan Hardie full 4:49 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1657468?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1657468?v=1
Your 7-Step Emergency Plan:

BORROW A PHONE IMMEDIATELY. Don't wait. Act now.

CALL YOUR BANK'S FRAUD HOTLINE. Block banking apps. Stop transactions. This is your top priority.

CALL YOUR NETWORK PROVIDER. Tell them to block your SIM immediately. Without your number, thieves can't get SMS codes to reset your passwords.

Vodacom: 082 111

MTN: 083 123

Cell C: 084 140

Telkom: 081 160

SECURE YOUR WHATSAPP. Get a replacement SIM with your same number ASAP and reinstall WhatsApp. If locked out, email support@whatsapp.com with proof of your number.

REMOTELY WIPE YOUR PHONE. Use android.com/find (Android) or icloud.com/find (Apple) on a computer to lock or erase your device.

CHANGE CRITICAL PASSWORDS. Email, social media, banking—anything that was on that phone.

OPEN A POLICE CASE. Visit SAPS for a case number. Needed for insurance claims.

Write These Down NOW:

Your bank's fraud hotline: __________________

Your network provider's emergency line: __________________

Your SIM card number: __________________

Bottom Line: Panic wastes time. A plan protects everything.

Stay safe out there!
- Declan Hardie, Impact 103 ]]> Education Thu, 19 Mar 2026 08:28:00 +0200 0 0 Cyber Sense Ep. 18 - What to do if your phone has been stolen 0 0 Declan Hardie full 4:07 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1647340?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1647340?v=1
CALL YOUR BANK IMMEDIATELY. Use the 24/7 fraud number on the back of your bank card. Freeze accounts, stop payments, reverse transactions. Every minute counts.

GATHER EVIDENCE. Screenshot messages, save numbers, note dates and times. This helps banks, police, and platforms investigate.

REPORT IT OFFICIALLY.

SAPS: Report at saps.gov.za or your local police station.

SMS Scams: Forward the SMS to 7726 (free).

WhatsApp: Report the account within the app.

Facebook/Instagram: Report the profile or ad.

WARN YOUR COMMUNITY. Tell your WhatsApp groups, neighbourhood watch, and family. Sharing the scammer's script protects others from falling for the same trick.

SECURE YOUR ACCOUNTS. Change passwords. Turn on Two-Factor Authentication everywhere. Consider a credit bureau alert with TransUnion or Experian if your ID was used.

Important South African Resources:

SAPS Cyber Crimes Centre: saps.gov.za

SA Fraud Prevention Service: 011 867 2234

Your Bank's Fraud Hotline: Find it on your bank card NOW, before you need it.

Bottom Line: Shame protects scammers. Action protects you and your community. ]]> Education Wed, 18 Feb 2026 08:14:00 +0200 0 0 Cyber Sense Ep. 17 - What to do if you have been scammed? 0 0 Declan Hardie full 4:00 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1644432?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1644432?v=1 Hackers often work in secret. Here are the quiet signs an intruder is in your accounts.

The 3 Key Signs to Look For:

CHECK YOUR LOGIN HISTORY. Go to your account Security settings (in email, social media, bank apps). Look for “Login Activity.” See a device or location you don’t recognize? That’s a major red flag.

LOOK FOR MYSTERY ACTIVITY.

Strange sent emails you didn't write.

Social media posts or follows you didn’t make.

Password reset emails you didn't request.

Tiny, unfamiliar charges on your bank statement (even for $1).

LISTEN TO YOUR FRIENDS. If contacts ask, “Did you send me this link?” they’ve caught the hacker for you. Thank them and act fast!

What to Do RIGHT NOW If You See a Sign:

Change your password on the affected account.

Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA/ MFA) immediately.

For financial fraud, call your bank’s fraud line.

Bottom Line: Be a detective in your own digital life. Regular check-ups catch intruders. ]]> Education Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 16 - How to tell if your account has been hacked? 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:24 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1642050?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1642050?v=1 Today's phishing emails are perfect copies from real companies. Don't get fooled.

Your 3-Step Detective Work:

CHECK THE GREETING. A real company will use your name. “Dear User” or “Dear Customer” is a major red flag.

HOVER, DON'T CLICK. Hover your mouse over any link before clicking. The true web address will pop up. If it looks weird or misspelled, it’s a fake.

VERIFY OUTSIDE THE EMAIL. Got a panic message? Close the email. Open your browser, type the official website yourself, log in, and check your account. The “emergency” will vanish.

Bottom Line: Urgency is the scammer’s best weapon. Slow down and verify. ]]> Education Tue, 03 Feb 2026 12:58:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 15 - Phishing Emails 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:10 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1639432?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1639432?v=1
Rule One: Never Trust Caller ID or the Sender’s Name in a Text. Spoofing is effortless. That text from “FedEx” or call from “SARS” is almost certainly fake. Assume it’s fraudulent until you verify.

Rule Two: Never Engage. Never Click. Never Call Back. Your most powerful move is silence. Do not reply “STOP” or “NO” to a suspicious text—it just confirms your number is live. Do not press “1” to speak to an agent. Do not call the number provided. Break contact.

Rule Three: Verify Through Your Official App or a Known Number. If a text claims to be from your bank, log into your bank’s official app separately. If a call is about a parcel, go to the shipper’s official website and type in your tracking number yourself. Initiate contact on your terms, using information you already have.

- CyberSense with Declan Hardie on Impact 103 ]]> Education Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:30:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 14 - Smishing & Vishing 2.0 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:10 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636780?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636780?v=1
USE A WALL OUTLET, NOT A USB PORT. Carry your own AC charger and plug into a standard power socket. It’s safe—electricity only, no data.

CARRY A “USB DATA BLOCKER.” This cheap adapter goes between a public cable and your phone. It blocks data transfer and allows only power.

AS A LAST RESORT, POWER OFF. If you must use a suspicious USB port, turn your phone completely OFF before plugging in to prevent data theft ]]> Education Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:30:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 13 - Juice Jacking 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:04 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636702?v=3 https://iono.fm/e/1636702?v=3
Your 3-Step Defense Plan:

USE A PASSWORD MANAGER: This is your #1 tool. It creates and stores a strong, unique password for every account. You only remember one master password.

TURN ON 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication): Add a second step to logins (like a texted code). Even with your password, a hacker can't get in without this.

CHECK IF YOU'RE ALREADY PAWNED: Go to haveibeenpwned.com (a safe, free site). See if your email is in known data breaches. If it is, change those passwords NOW.

Bottom Line: One password for everything is a master key for criminals. Make every password unique.

Stay safe out there!
- Declan Hardie ]]> Education Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:52:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 12 - Credential Stuffing 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:08 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636701?v=3 https://iono.fm/e/1636701?v=3
Your 3-Step Safety Scan:

PAUSE & QUESTION: Does this QR code seem out of place? Is it on a fake parking ticket or oddly stuck over another code? If it feels off, don't scan it.

PREVIEW THE LINK: Your phone shows the website address before you tap. LOOK AT IT! Is it a jumble of letters or a fake look-alike (like "fed-ex-login.com")? Don't proceed.

GO DIRECT: If unsure, don't use the QR code. Manually type the official website address into your browser instead.

Bottom Line: Convenience is no excuse for compromise. Scan with your eyes first.

Stay safe out there!
- Declan Hardie ]]> Education Tue, 06 Jan 2026 10:51:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 11 - QR Code Phishing 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:21 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636700?v=3 https://iono.fm/e/1636700?v=3
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:50:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 10 - AI Impersonation 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:26 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636699?v=4 https://iono.fm/e/1636699?v=4 Your smart doorbell, thermostat, and voice assistant are convenient. But hackers see them as a weak back door into your home network.

Your 3 Rules for a Secure Smart Home:

CHANGE THE DEFAULT PASSWORD. New devices often come with generic passwords like "admin" or "1234." Change it to a strong, unique password right out of the box. This is your number one defense.

KEEP YOUR GADGETS UPDATED. When the app sends a firmware update notification, don't ignore it. Tap "update." These updates patch security holes hackers are actively trying to use.

ASK: DOES IT NEED TO BE ONLINE? Does your living room lamp really need internet access, or would a simple timer plug work? Every connected device is another potential entry point. Sometimes, the smartest choice is to keep it simple.

Bottom Line: Secure your smart devices like you'd lock your front door. Awareness is everything.

Stay safe out there! ]]> Education Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:49:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 9 - Smart Devices 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:06 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636697?v=3 https://iono.fm/e/1636697?v=3 Even if you do everything right, hackers can hide malware inside software updates from trusted companies. This is called a Supply Chain Attack.

Your 3 Shields Against This Threat:

NEVER UPDATE FROM AN EMAIL LINK. Scammers send fake "Urgent Update Required!" emails. Always go directly to the official website or your device's official app store to get updates.

PAY ATTENTION TO TECH NEWS. If you hear a major software company has been hacked, pause. Hold off on updating that software until the company gives the official all-clear.

USE A REPUTABLE SECURITY SUITE. Good antivirus software acts as a safety net, often detecting and stopping malicious updates before they can harm you.

Bottom Line: Updates are vital, but update smartly. Never click email links. Go direct. Stay informed.

Stay safe out there! ]]> Education Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:48:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 8 - Supply Chain Attack 0 0 Declan Hardie full 3:01 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636696?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636696?v=1
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:48:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 7 - Ransomware in the cyber space 0 0 Declan Hardie full 2:50 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636695?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636695?v=1
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Wed, 12 Nov 2025 10:47:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 6 - How to create a 'safe' password 0 0 Declan Hardie full 2:42 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636694?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636694?v=1
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:46:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 5 - 2 Factor Authentication 0 0 Declan Hardie full 2:23 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636692?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636692?v=1
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:45:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 4 - How to tell if a website is legit? 0 0 Declan Hardie full 2:26 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636691?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636691?v=1
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:44:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 3 - Phishing Scam 0 0 Declan Hardie full 2:57 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636690?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636690?v=1
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:43:00 +0200 0 0 CyberSense Ep. 2 - Facebook Marcketplace Scams 0 0 Declan Hardie full 2:32 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends) https://iono.fm/e/1636688?v=1 https://iono.fm/e/1636688?v=1
From the latest ransomware threats targeting South African businesses to data protection laws and practical tips to keep you and your company safe, Cyber Sense is your trusted source for staying ahead. We break down complex threats into plain language, keeping you informed and in control.

Don't navigate the digital world unprepared. For Cyber Sense, it's not just about news—it's about making South Africa more secure, one listener at a time.

Listen live every Wednesday at 8:30 PM on Impact 103 FM. Got a question or topic suggestion? Message us at 071 364 0376. ]]> Education Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:42:00 +0200 0 0 Cyber Sense Ep. 1 - Deepfakes & AI scams 0 0 Declan Hardie full 2:11 Cyber Sense with Declan Hardie (Cyber Security Trends)