The internet plays a huge part in many peoples lives, and as more and more people rely on the internet as part of their everyday lives, the opportunity of coming across online scams increases.
Being aware of these scams and being able to identify them is your best protection. So, what should you look out for when it comes to online scamming techniques? Here we reveal some of the most common types of online scams out there on the internet…
Phishing Email Scams
Phishing emails are used to try and trick the victim into visiting a fraudulent side that is made to look like a genuine site; usually the victims banking website. The scammers convince the victim that they are logging onto their real account but instead, they are inputting personal information such as bank details into a site that sends it straight to the scammer.
If you are ever unsure as to whether an email is genuine, don’t click on any of the links within the email and always call your bank or head to their website directly.
It is also worth noting that the majority of banks now advise that they will never email you asking for you to change or enter your bank details for any reason.
Fake Antivirus Software
This kind of online scam usually starts with a pop up on your computer that reads something along the lines of “WARNING, you have been infected, download XXXX antivirus to protect your computer NOW!”
These types of popups are cleverly designed to look genuine and almost always use scare tactics so that the victim doesn’t hesitate to click on the popup, allowing a hacker to immediately access their computer.
To avoid this kind of online scam, invest in high quality online protection, update your antivirus software regularly, activate a popup window blocker and avoid downloading programmes or files from unknown sources.
Hacked Profile Scam
Popular with social media users, this scam usually involves the hacker accessing your profile and demanding money or cryptocurrency in exchange for the safe return of your account.
To avoid this kind of scam never click on any suspicious links, always use strong passwords and never use the same password more than once.
Fake Shopping Websites
Scammers imitate legitimate businesses online either by using fake websites, using advertisements on social media or sending direct emails with irresistible offers. These websites or emails are extremely convincing and often look identical to the real thing.
If it seems to good to be true, it probably is. To avoid falling victim to this type of online scam, avoid clicking on the ad or email and always navigate to the actual website directly.
There are many more online scamming techniques that both businesses and individuals need to be aware of to protect themselves online. Want to know more? Keep up-to-date with the latest advice and insights via our blog or contact us directly.
A specialist IT Company based in Corby, Northamptonshire, Syntec Systems provide expert IT Solutions and IT Support services to businesses in the local area. Syntec Systems specialise in IT Management, IT Consultancy and IT Procurement, and their experienced technicians also offer a 24/7 helpdesk service to help resolve untimely IT Issues for all businesses with no prior contract.