Watch Out for These Tricky Internet Scams
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Criminals will try to fleece you of your hard-earned money any way they can. Whether they’re trying to overpower you and take your wallet or con you into sending them money over the phone, thieves will always find a way to target you.
In the modern era, the internet has given criminals a new avenue through which to find victims and steal from people. Here are some of the most common internet scams you need to look out for on the web. If you’re careful and use common sense, you should be able to avoid any scammers who want to steal your information or money.
When it comes to internet scams, phishing is the oldest trick in the book. This scam involves a criminal sending emails, direct messages, or texts posing as an official website rep.
These scam messages usually include a link to a login page so you can input your credentials to verify something important. When you follow these links, though, you end up on a fake version of a real website.
The best way to avoid these scams is to never open links in messages from senders you can’t verify. If you do follow a link and see a convincing-look web page, check the URL in the address bar. If it doesn’t match up with the website you’re seeing, you’re looking at a scam. Don’t put your information into any fields on a site like this!
Be careful on dating sites. Often, criminals will pose as attractive strangers on these sites to fleece you of your money. These kinds of scams often target older people who might not be as technologically savvy, but thankfully they’re easy to identify. When you meet someone online, ask them to video chat with you.
This is a very straightforward way to tell if someone is hiding their identity. If they refuse to video call you, then you’re being catfished. You can safely disregard interactions with anyone who won’t show you their face online.
Be selective about sending money to charities online. You never know when you might be accidentally “donating” to a criminal who plans to keep the money for themselves.
Research any portal you use to donate to a charity and ask for receipts of every donation you make online. That way, if someone tries to scam you, you’ll know ahead of time when they refuse to offer you the proper credentials and guarantees regarding your donation.