Anyone can
access the web and as a result, it is easy to encounter all kinds of people
online. Unfortunately this also includes scammers. Online scams are commonplace
in this day and age, with the proliferation of digital technologies and the
advancement of the internet revolution. The Internet is a space where anonymity
offers a cloak of protection to the scammer. Online scams are aimed at enticing
people with lucrative offers that sound amazing. Remember, if it seems too good
to be true, it probably is.
How to Avoid Online Scams
#1 Using Your Credit Card
The first
thing you need to remember is that credit card information needs to be
safeguarded. Fake charges can be disputed, but it is better not to go down that
road. Don't share credit card details over the email as these can easily be
detected by cybercriminals. See if the web page where you are entering payment
details is secure and whether the address begins with http or https (the latter
is secure). The credit card bill has to be checked each month. If you come
across charges you do not recognize, consult the credit card company
immediately. False charges can easily be recovered.
#2 Buying Products Online
Auction
fraud is one of the most common online scams. This occurs when something is
purchased from an online marketplace. You may make the payment and never
receive the goods. Chasing the seller will prove to be a waste of time. So, how can you avoid this category of online scams? Be extra alert while purchasing
products online. Look at seller feedback and comments from buyers. See if the
seller if legit and don't purchase anything from those with less feedback or
poor ratings.
#3 Responding to “Official” Emails
Phishing
scams are a class of online scams when you receive an email asking you to
regularly update the account information supposedly from the bank or any other
financial site. The link on this non-verified email is from cybercriminal
masquerading as a legit organization. Link takes people to a fake site that
looks much like the bank, but aims to steal information and your money.
Remember that no bank or financial institution will ask for account update on
emails.
#4 Being Approached for Advance Fee
The
Nigerian 419 scam is another of the online scams, where the lure of making more
money is dangled before you to get you to pay an advance fee. Such fees are
typically for taxes, lawyer costs and other fees in advance to make the
“process” take place. What is important is to check the urge to respond to
these “too good to be true” scenarios. Don't reply to these emails and ensure
that they are marked as spam and deleted.
#5 Postal Forwarding or Reshipping
You may be
asked to pass on goods or money wired to you to another country, after
responding to an ad that asks for help from companies without US postal
addresses to ship items overseas. The chances are high that the goods or the
money will be stolen. Check and see if the person sending the email is legit
and ignore requests to transfer funds or goods on someone's behalf when you do
not know them.
The most
important part about avoiding online scams is to know which signs to watch out
for. Huge stories, furtive behavior, pressure tactics and unverified persons
dealing with you is a sure sign the criminals are trying to get your money or
personal details. Choose anti-virus protection and plain common sense to avoid
these online scammers and issue a fraud alert should you encounter one.
