TROY, Ohio — Bryan Hart, a certified public accountant and a president of Alliance Business Professionals has a piece of advice heading into the holiday season: “Never trust anyone with your business 100% unless it's yourself."

Hart has a unique perspective on cybercrime. He is not only a business owner but also a certified fraud examiner. 

The Texas native, who has found a home in the city of Troy, north of Dayton, said these days, fraud and cybercrime come in many forms. 

“They come through the iPhone. They come through computer emails. We see a lot of sales tax scams on companies. They'll call you and tell you, 'you owe sales tax.' Or they'll send you an email saying you know you have overdue taxes to pay,” said Hart. 

The United Nations has warned that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the rate of cybercrime has increased by 600% by the end of this year costing the world $6 trillion. 

Also, phishing attacks account for 90% of all data breaches.

Hart said the elderly are most at risk. 

“I would suggest that families keep a close eye on their elderly parents, relatives. Everybody just needs to just look out for each other. And when you get something in an email or get a phone call or anything like that, question it. Don't ever pay anything. Don't ever give any information,” said Hart. 

And when you're out and about shopping this holiday season, Hart said consider buying a radio frequency ID blocking wallet for added protection. 

“I've got one here, $30. You know, it's got my license. I can carry 10 cards in it. You can't scan these. When you're out shopping, at the gas pumps, look around your shoulder. Look at who's around you in the store. Look at who's around you in the check-out line because let me tell you, people are looking,” said Hart. 

For more information or to report cybercrime click here.