5 ‘Must Dos’ for Avoiding Online Scams

The internet is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it offers convenience, connectivity, and access to a wealth of information. On the other hand, it provides a fertile ground for scammers who are constantly honing their craft.

While it's easy to assume you won’t fall for a scam, the truth is that anyone can fall victim. According to a new survey of 7,000 respondents, 34% experienced a cyber scam in 2023 and 85% reported receiving a digital scam attempt. It is projected that scams will become the #1 online threat to consumers in 2024.

To help you stay safe, we’ve gathered our list of the top 5 essential things you can do to protect yourself against online scams. So, let’s dive right into it.

1. Double-Check URLs and Website Authenticity

One of the most common ways scammers trick people is by creating fake websites that look almost identical to legitimate ones. These fake sites often have URLs that are just slightly different from the real ones. For example, instead of "yourbank.com," a scam site might use "yuorbank.com." And when you go to the page, you are asked to sign in or insert your payment details – which then go directly to scammers.

How you can stay safe:

• Manually type the URL: Instead of clicking on links in emails or messages, type the URL directly into your browser. For example, if you receive an email claiming to be from your bank, go directly to the official website instead of clicking the provided link.

• Be wary of search result links: Scammers can manipulate search engine results to display their fake websites at the top of search results. If you can, type the official URL directly into your browser instead of clicking on search results.

• Use trusted bookmarks: Save the official websites you frequently visit as bookmarks in your browser for easy and secure access.

• Use a scam protection app: A security app that blocks malicious websites automatically helps you avoid threats, working in the background to keep you safe.

2. Question Online Identities and Reviews

Online, anyone can pretend to be someone else, and the things we use as markers for trust—like reviews and social media metrics—can be easily manipulated. Positive testimonies, likes, and subscriptions can be bought to make a product or service appear more trustworthy than it is.

How you can stay safe:

• Verify identities: If you’re talking with someone new online, do some background checks. Look for consistent information across multiple platforms. If they make excuses for why they can’t meet or have a video call, something is off.

• Do not send money to strangers: Scammers may take their time to build a relationship with victims or pose as a family member in distress. Do not send money to people you haven’t met, no matter who they claim they are.

• Be skeptical of reviews: Take glowing reviews with a grain of salt. Look for patterns of feedback and check for reviews on multiple sites.

• Trust your gut: If something feels off, take a step back. It's better to be cautious than to fall for a scam.

3. Be Wary of Spoofed Communications

Spoofing is when scammers make it appear as if their calls, messages, or emails are coming from a trusted source. Caller IDs, email addresses, and even social media accounts can be spoofed. For example, spoofed text messages may appear in an existing text message chain with a delivery company, or bank.

How you can stay safe:

• Verify contact with the organization: If you receive a suspicious message or call, contact the organization directly using known contact information, not the contact details provided in the message.

• Avoid unsolicited links: If you get a message about a service you use, go directly to the service’s official website by typing the URL in your browser instead of clicking the link.

• Check for signs of spoofing: Look for odd phrasing, unusual email addresses, or any inconsistencies that might indicate the message is not legitimate.

• Use browsing protection: There’s no need to worry about malicious link traps if you have a security app that blocks access to scam sites before you land on them.

4. Protect Your Personal Information

Scammers aren't just after your money—they also want your personal details. With enough personal information they can commit identity theft, i.e. they can buy goods, take loans, and open accounts in your name, potentially leading to financial and reputational damage.

How you can stay safe:

• Limit information sharing: Don’t share sensitive information like your Social Security number, bank details, or passwords unless absolutely necessary. You can also limit the amount of information you give to service providers.

• Use strong passwords: Implement complex, unique passwords for all your accounts and use a password manager to keep track of them.

• Monitor your credit: Regularly check your credit reports for any unauthorized activity. This can help you catch identity theft early.

• Use 24/7 identity monitoring: Get a 24/7 identity monitoring service that continuously scans for data breaches involving your personal details. These services alert you to potential identity theft in real-time, allowing you to take immediate action to protect your identity and prevent further damage.

5. Stay Humble and Vigilant

Remember: anyone can be scammed, no matter how savvy you are. Scammers use sophisticated techniques and human psychology to trick even the most cautious individuals. Being humble and vigilant is key.

Practical Tips:

• Be aware of social engineering tricks: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, appeal to authority, or use trending themes to catch you off guard. Recognize these tactics and take a step back before reacting quickly.

• Ask for a second opinion: If you’re unsure about something, consult a friend or family member. A second pair of eyes can help you see things more clearly.

Keep informed: Stay updated on common scam techniques and recent scams by following reputable sources and news outlets that report on cyber security.