The internet is a wonderful invention. However, just like everything else, it also has its flaws. It can turn into a mining field of scammers that is out to get you for your riches or information. For this reason, you need to be careful about the information you share online. The first step to being safe is identifying a scammer’s tactic. Here are a few things you need to know about scams:
- Scammers pretend to be from an organization you know
A lot of scammers will often pretend to contact you on behalf of a well-known organization like government agencies. They will even use real names to make it more believable like the Medicare, IRS or SSA. Scammers can use technology to change their phone number and the caller ID that appears on your phone, so be extra careful when dealing with calls, especially if you know you didn’t do anything that could warrant the attention of said organizations.
- Scammers say there’s a problem or a prize
Don’t get tempted by messages saying you’ve won a prize too good to be true, especially when you didn’t even join any raffle or competition, to begin with. Some scammers might send you a message saying there is a problem with one of your accounts and they need to verify your information.
- Scammers will pressure you to act immediately
Scammers will pressure you to make a decision quickly so that you wouldn’t have time to think. If they are on the phone with you, they will not let you hang up so you wouldn’t have time to verify their story. If you notice them acting like this, hang up immediately and don’t give away your personal information.
- Scammers tell you to pay in a specific way
Scammers will avoid any legal transactions as much as possible like that of the banks since they will expose their identity that way. What they do is that they try to convince you to send money through a specific money transfer company.
What can you do to avoid scams?
To prevent you from getting scammed, we have compiled a list that will help you avoid scammers. Check it out below:
- The first step that you can do is to block unwanted calls or messages from groups that you are not affiliated with. You can report the number if you notice anything suspicious with their activity.
- Another thing you can do is to hold back from giving any personal information in response to messages you didn’t expect. Remember that legitimate organizations won’t ask for your personal information through calls, emails or texts.
- Don’t click on any random links since it can give your device a virus that will exploit your personal information. Only contact an organization using their trustworthy website. Don’t reply to suspicious emails or texts.