Safer Internet Day: How To Spot And Avoid Online Scams (Akshay Jain)

The internet offers endless possibilities but also comes with certain dangers which users should watch out for. A common type of such dangers are known as online scams. Scammers indulge in different techniques in order to hack, steal or manipulate personal information or important assets (such as money/bank details). How do we combat this - by identifying potential dangers early on. Here’s how you can keep yourself and your information safe: 

What to Lookout For 

A vast majority of scammers use similar and repetitive techniques - some of these include the following: 

• Phishing Emails & Messages: Scammers pose as legitimate companies, asking for personal info(Such as passwords or important details). Look for poor grammar, urgent language, or suspicious links. 

• Fake Websites & Online Stores: Once in a lifetime type deal? Check for HTTPS, read reviews, and verify the business before buying. 

• Job & Investment Scams: If a potential hiree asks for payment upfront or an investment promises huge returns with no risk of loss or imminent downsides, there’s a good chance that it's a scam. 

• Romance Scams: Be cautious with online relationships. Scammers often ask for money or personal details after building trust. These types of scams usually come in the form of links with the intent to steal information from your system. 

How To Stay Safe

Staying safe can seem overwhelming with so many ways to get your information stolen by theft - but there are some surefire ways to keep yourself safe: 

• Verify before clicking: Hover over sent links to check URLs. Contact companies directly if unsure.

• Use strong passwords & two-factor authentication: This protects your accounts from unauthorized access. 

• Avoid oversharing personal info: Scammers use details from social media to make their scams more convincing.

• Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.

• Report scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to authorities like the FTC or your local cybercrime unit.

• Trust warnings: At times your system will detect potential scammers or junk callers on its own through its program , these built-in warnings are developed to keep yourself safe.

Online scams are endless, but awareness and online literacy can keep you and your private information safe and secure . Being cautious or double checking before sending information or payments to friends or family can be very beneficial. By recognizing the listed red flags and building certain online habits can aid yourself and your own safety. By staying alert and cautious you can avoid being another victim at the hands of malicious persons.