5 Tips to Avoid Scams
With the number of online scams on the rise, it is important to stay educated on how to avoid them. With the right knowledge and a few simple tips, you can avoid becoming a victim of a fraudulent transaction.
1. Know Your Source
The old adage holds true here, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Before committing to any sort of purchase or transfer of funds, make sure you’re dealing with a reputable source. Do your research—find out who owns the business or website, check for customer reviews, or even look up the BBB accreditation (there are services, such as Trust Guard, that specialize in researching companies and checking for any potentially fraudulent activity).
2. Be Wary of Requests for Personal Information
No reputable company or online institution will ever ask for your personal information (like passwords, social security number, or banking information) over the phone, text message, or email. If you receive a request for personal information, simply decline and report the incident to the authorities—if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
3. Do Your Homework
In the case of online purchases, be sure to do your homework. Research the product you’re interested in buying, and be sure to read reviews and compare prices. Common sense should come into play here—a too-good-to-be-true deal should be taken with a grain of salt.
4. Beware of Spam Emails
Another common type of scam involves spam emails supposedly from a well-known company, such as a bank, or a large online retailer. All too often, these emails will contain malicious links or attachments, or will ask you to click a link in order to provide confidential information. Be sure to NEVER click on such links. Doing so could potentially infect your computer with malware or a virus.
5. Don’t Trust Just Anyone Online
Finally, it is important to stay vigilant when it comes to online scams. Do not trust anyone unless you have verified their identity. If someone you do not know is making promises that sound too good to be true, walk away. While it is okay to trust your gut, it is always best to err on the side of caution when participating in online transactions.
In conclusion, when it comes to avoiding online scams, knowledge is power. Be sure do your due diligence and research anything you’re considering participating in. Be wary of requests for personal information and suspicious emails, and always take caution before clicking on an unknown link. By following these simple tips, you can avoid becoming a victim of an online scam.
