Tips For Avoiding Online Scams On The Internet
As technology keeps advancing, the risk of online scams is going up too. Especially in today's world, where nearly everything is done on the internet - from learning, working, shopping, to banking. So, you gotta be extra cautious when you're online to avoid online scams.
What's Online Scams?
So, scams are a form of digital or cyber crime that we should be aware of to prevent them from spreading and causing more harm. Scams are basically schemes to get money, goods, or personal data from their victims.
In this age of modern technology, scams are all about making as much money as possible through organized fraudulent activities. Scam crimes occur when there are vulnerabilities due to the carelessness and lack of attention of users to the information they receive.
These vulnerabilities are exploited to harvest valuable personal data, information, or even direct money, which is then used irresponsibly by the scammers.
Therefore, it's essential for us to always be cautious about scams. When it comes to scams, it's important to know the different types that often occur. So, what are these common types of scams? You can find out more about them in the following discussion.
Types of Online Scams
Getting to know different types of online scams is crucial for staying safe and vigilant when transacting online. Here are some common types of online scams:
1. Online Scams via WhatsApp
Messaging apps like WhatsApp aren't immune to digital scams. They often come in the form of links promising gifts or discount vouchers. Once you click on the link, you're directed to fill in your personal information as a condition to receive the prize.
Or, the link might contain malware that could compromise your account. If someone sends you such a link, it's best to ignore it and delete it right away. It's like throwing away a suspicious package you received in the mail.
2. Fake Selfies and Identities
This is commonly encountered when you meet people online. Scammers often use fake selfies and identities to lure their victims. They might even use your photos and information to deceive others.
To avoid becoming a target, refrain from posting pictures where you're holding up official documents like your tax ID, ID card, driver's license, or any other personal identification - it's like not giving out your address to strangers online.
3. SIM Swap Fraud
This online scam involves using someone's SIM card number to take control of their social media or bank accounts. The scammers do this by visiting the victim's mobile operator store and convincing the staff to change the victim's number to a new one.
They also use personal information found on the victim's social media profiles, such as full name, birthdate, and parents' names, to convince the mobile operator staff.
This ploy makes it easier for the scammers to carry out banking transactions and access other digital accounts because the OTP codes will be sent to their new number. It's like someone tricking your postal service into redirecting your mail to their address.
4. Phone Scams
This is an old online scam, but it's still in use today. The trick involves receiving a call claiming to be from a big company, offering a cash prize that will be transferred to your bank account. The red flag here is when the scammer says you've won a lottery.
To redeem the prize, they ask for your bank account number, the registered mobile number in your digital wallet, and the OTP (One Time Password) code for that account. Phone scams are like those old-school telemarketing calls, but in this case, they promise something that's too good to be true.
5. SMS Scams
Similar to phone scams, this one's been around for a while, but it now comes in the form of text messages offering quick loans or notifications of winning prizes like cash, gold, or even vehicles. When you get an unsolicited message like this, it's best to be skeptical. These scams are like junk mail for spam emails, but they're on your phone.
6. Bank Impersonation Scams
These scams are easy to spot. Someone claiming to be from a particular bank will call or send an SMS/WhatsApp message, asking you to update your personal information to avoid being blocked by the bank.
These scams can break into your online banking account, so be careful because a legitimate bank won't contact you to update your details. It's like someone pretending to be your landlord and asking for your personal information when they should have no reason to do so.
7. Online Scams via Email
Scammers send emails containing links to specific websites. If you click on these links, you'll be redirected to a site where you're asked to input your username and password.
These deceptive emails often promise job opportunities, claim you've won a lottery, ask for banking or online shop updates, and more. Essentially, they're like digital bait trying to reel you in.
8. Account Takeover
This scam works similarly to SIM swap fraud, where scammers use your personal data to take control of your account. This can happen when you, either intentionally or unintentionally, provide your personal data to the scammer.
Using this data, they can make updates to your account information and even create fake authorizations to make it appear as if you've agreed to their actions. It's like someone using your signature to make decisions on your behalf.
9. Online Sniffing Scams
These scams are executed through the victim's device network. Scammers use this method to access and gain control over your important data. Typically, this type of online scam targets individuals using public Wi-Fi networks in public places.
Unbeknownst to you, the network has been infiltrated by malware, which can intercept your personal information and data. It's like someone eavesdropping on your conversation in a crowded coffee shop without your knowledge.
10. Online Pharming Scams
These are online scams that direct victims to fake websites that closely resemble official or genuine sites. These bogus sites contain malware that can unlawfully access your personal data.
Scammers can send these links through text messages, social media, and messaging apps. In some cases, there have been instances of pharming attacks compromising victims' WhatsApp numbers and taking control of their smartphones.
11. Money Mule Scams
This online scam aims to use victims as unwitting participants in money laundering. Scammers request the victim's bank account details to transfer a sum of money.
The victim is promised a substantial amount, but they're told they must pay taxes on the money first. It's like someone asking you to hold onto a mysterious package and promising you a cut of the contents, but they insist you pay a "handling fee" upfront.
12. Social Engineering Scams
Scammers manipulate the psychology of their victims, tricking them into revealing sensitive personal data without realizing it. As the name suggests, this type of online scam often targets social media platforms, but it's not uncommon through emails, phone calls, and text messages as well.
This form of social engineering is also known as "spear phishing." The scammers impersonate official entities like banks or platform developers, sending links and requests to update or upload personal data. It's like someone posing as a close friend and persuading you to share personal secrets without your awareness.
How to Avoid Online Scams on the Internet?
To steer clear of falling into online scams, here are some tips you should follow:
1. Don't Share OTP Codes
OTP (One Time Password) is a digital security code often used in online transactions. It's typically sent via SMS or email by apps, banks, or other services. To protect your digital accounts, never give out OTP codes to anyone who asks for them, even if they claim to be a family member.
2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords
Avoid using the same password for all your digital accounts, whether it's for email, e-commerce, banking, or digital wallets. Also, make it a habit to change your account passwords every 1-3 months to prevent unauthorized access.
3. Don't Share Personal Data on Social Media
Steer clear of posting anything personal on social media, like selfies with your ID, driver's license, passport, or credit cards. Personal data is a goldmine for digital criminals, and sharing it on social platforms makes it easy to steal.
4. Be Cautious with App Downloads
Lately, there's been a surge in online scams through apps infected with malware. So, avoid downloading apps from anywhere other than official platforms to stay safe from these malicious tricks.
5. Always Log Out After Transactions
After making an online transaction on any app, don't forget to log out. This way, you'll ensure that your account isn't infiltrated by outsiders or digital crooks. Logging out is like locking the door to your online world.
6. Pay Attention to Email Addresses
When you receive promotional newsletters or job vacancy emails, it's essential to scrutinize the sender's email address. You might be deceived by scammers pretending to be from official sources or well-known companies. Keep an eye out for email addresses that seem suspicious or don't match the sender's claimed identity.
7. Don't Easily Fall for Temptation
Who doesn't love the idea of winning a big prize? It's tempting for sure, and most people wouldn't want to miss such an opportunity. But hold on, don't get carried away just yet! The prize or sudden flash sale you stumble upon might be bait from online scam artists.
So, don't easily give in to the allure of big rewards offered by anyone until you've verified their legitimacy. It's like double-checking a gift to make sure it's not a trick.
8. Remove Device Links
If you're getting a new device and plan to give away or sell your old one, make sure to unlink your accounts from the old device. This step is particularly important because it prevents others from accessing your accounts on the old device. It's like wiping your digital slate clean.
9. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
To protect your accounts from online scammers, it's a good idea to turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). With this added security feature, it becomes much harder for digital crooks to break into your digital accounts. It's like having an extra lock on your digital doors.
10. Thoroughly Check URL Links
This might seem trivial, but URL links can be an entry point for digital criminals to breach your digital accounts. They often create fake websites that closely resemble official ones, making users vulnerable to deception by mimicking the familiar interface.
So, ensure that any links you access or are sent by any platform start with "https." If something seems suspicious, it's better to cancel your login or transaction. It's like being cautious when opening a door to a new place - if it looks fishy, think twice before going in.
11. Keep Your System and Anti-Virus Up to Date
Regularly updating your system and anti-virus software can help you stay protected from online scam artists. If your installed software is outdated, scammers have a higher chance of breaching your digital device's security. It's like making sure your front door is locked and reinforced.
12. Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks
Online scams can also happen through VPNs or free Wi-Fi. To avoid falling victim to these new phishing methods, start by using public Wi-Fi or free VPNs found in public places. It's like choosing a safe path to walk on; you wouldn't want to take a risky shortcut through a dark alley.
Now You Know How to Avoid Online Scams, Don't You?
In the digital age, where the online world is an integral part of our lives, the threat of online scams is a real and ever-present danger. As we've explored various types of online scams and the precautions to take, it's clear that staying safe in this digital realm is not about being tech-savvy; it's about being vigilant and cautious.
Online scams might be prevalent, but with the right awareness and a touch of skepticism, you can navigate the digital landscape with confidence. So, go forth, explore the internet, and keep your digital life secure. Don't let the scammers catch you unaware - because now you know how to avoid online scams, don't you?
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