How often do shark attacks happen — and where are they most common? Experts weigh in

While reports of harrowing shark attacks and great white shark sightings may send shivers down your spine, wildlife experts want swimmers to know that most of these incidents are actually a case of mistaken identity.

"The truth is — when you're in the water, if you're in a healthy marine ecosystem...you're often never more than 100 yards from a shark," Jeff Corwin, an American biologist and wildlife conservationist, recently told CBS News. "We're often interacting with these species and we don't even know about it."

The best way to protect yourself is to recognize "unwanted cues" or "unwanted opportunities" to limit your risk of encountering a shark, Corwin said.