The number of internet scams has bloomed. And so did their diversity. If you think you’re too tech-savvy or financially sophisticated, be cautious. Anyone can fall for scams but getting informed increases your safety. So, learn more about 7 common scams you can avoid.
Cryptocurrency Scams
The cryptocurrency market has become the promised land of many investors. However, there are also many ill-intentioned individuals eager to get rich from cryptocurrency and not by legal means. The most common cryptocurrency scams involve fake trading platforms.
These scams usually start with misleading ads. When someone clicks on the ad, they reach a fake or clone website which imitate a legitimate trading platform. Then, they create an account and start investing money.
Afterward, they realize they can no longer access their account or withdraw funds. Why? Because scammers blocked the account. To avoid these costly mistakes, only trade on reputable platforms. Access them through the official website, not an ad.
Customer Support Scams
Only in the U.S. one consumer loses around $450 in a support scam every 10 seconds (source). These scams usually take place by email or phone.
A customer support agent from a big company such as Amazon or Microsoft reaches out to you. They tell you they spotted suspicious activity on your account. Therefore, they need to verify it. For this, they ask for your account details.
If you provide them, you offer fraudsters your name, address, phone number, or bank account information. Afterward, scammers can make purchases with your money. Moreover, they can use your personal data to impersonate you.
The bottom line: never share your credentials with anyone, not even with customer support.
Read more about cryptocurrency scams in this article: Fraud And Scam Risk Factors “All You Need To Know” Moving Forward: By Bastion Balance Korea
IRS Scams
These scams usually rely on panic and fear. Impostors pretending to be the IRS email or call you. They claim you owe back taxes, and you need to pay ASAP. If you don’t, they will start legal actions against you.
Many people fell for these scams because of fear. Nobody wants problems with the IRS. Yet, simply paying without checking the claim’s validity is not a rational decision.
Moreover, the IRS will never contact you by email or phone. They only use registered mail to contact taxpayers. Also, they don’t threaten taxpayers. If someone claims to contact you from the IRS, don’t reply or call back. Contact the real agency and ask for clarifications.
Online Love Scams
Online love scams usually occur on dating websites and apps. Here, con artists look for vulnerable people they can prey on.
Scammers gradually build trust in their victims. They also share a lot of intimate details about themselves to increase the sense of trust. Then, when they feel the victim is hooked, they ask for a loan.
Usually, they claim they need the money for an urgent matter. They might have a significant debt to pay or a medical emergency. Also, many pretend they’re stranded abroad and need money to turn home.
Those who send scammers money have very low chances to recover it. Moreover, regular dating sites are not the only fertile ground for these scams. Some con artists also use faith-based sites. People are even easier to con on these websites. They never imagine someone sharing their religion could pull off such scams.
Donation Scams
These scams are evergreen. They come in many forms and take place on various channels. Some com artists ask for donations through fake ads. Others call or send emails. However, the result is always the same. Scammers ask for money for a real cause but never support it. They simply take the money and use it for their own good.
Often, they impersonate big foundations and NGOs. To avoid such scams, always check the organization before donating. See if and where it is registered. Also, check if there were any scams related to it.
Medical Scams
Why would someone impersonate you for medical reasons? The answer is simple. To benefit from medical services without paying the cost. Many people had to pay medical bills as a result of identity theft.
If they steal your personal information, scammers could request and benefit from tests, interventions, or prescription drugs on your behalf. To avoid this, always keep your Social Security number and health insurance number private. Never share them with unknown people.
Furthermore, be cautious if someone offers you free health checks in exchange for this data. Finally, always check your insurance statements. If you see any suspicious charges, ask for clarifications.
Fake Apps
Nowadays, among legitimate companies offering mobile apps, there are also fake ones. These are dangerous because hackers use them to access users’ sensitive information. Additionally, they may also charge fees for an upgraded version of the app. Many people have unknowingly given criminals personal data and bank accounts by downloading such apps.
Fake apps usually steal information by using spyware. To avoid the threat, install an antivirus on your mobile. Also, never download an app you don’t fully trust.
Bottom Line
With so many scams out there, it’s more important than ever to be vigilant. Always think twice before transferring money or sharing your personal data with someone.
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