There is not a week that I go to visit my elders and they do not show me or tell me about an SMS, or any other type of message that has arrived through social networks, that is clearly an attempted scam. Luckily, at home we are trained, and we already know not to pay attention to any strange notification, but the truth is that danger always lurks, especially because we are connected to the Internet for much of the day. IF you want to know which scams are most used by cybercriminals and how you can avoid falling for them, you are in the right place.
Because there are more and more methods, new systems and evolutions of classic scams adapted to the digital age. If there is something left over in the world of cybercrime, it is creativity. We, as users, have the responsibility of having a minimum of knowledge about the online scams to which we are exposed, by the mere fact of existing and connecting in 2024. Since no one is safe and even the smartest can fall, you It is advisable to know these scams, the favorites of cybercriminals, so that you know how you can avoid falling for them
Cybercriminals’ Favorite Digital Scams
You spend more and more online, and although the Internet gives you many advantages, it is also fertile ground for scammers. They are becoming more sophisticated and their deceptions are more difficult to detect. To be prepared, you need to know the most common types of scams and how to protect yourself from them. Take note.
Phishing
Phishing consists of trying to steal personal information such as passwords, card numbers or bank details. Normally, you receive an email or SMS that seems trustworthy, such as from your bank or a company you know, but in reality it directs you to a fake page to steal your data.
How to avoid it? Do not click on links in suspicious emails. If you have questions, go to the website directly by typing the address in your browser. Also, check the URL to make sure it begins with “https” and has the lock icon, which indicates that it is a secure page.
Fake employment scams
Another common trap is fake job offers. They promise you a well-paying job and send you a check larger than the agreed upon amount, asking you to return the difference. In the end, the check is fake and you end up losing your money.
How to avoid it? Be wary of job offers that seem too good to be true. If they send you a check for more money than agreed upon and ask you to return part of it, you are facing a scam. Always verify the authenticity of job offers.
Romantic scams on social networks
Sentimental deception is increasingly common. They contact you through a social network or a dating app and, after gaining your trust, they ask you for money for an emergency. These scams play with your emotions to take advantage of you.
How to avoid it? Never send money to people you don’t know in real life. If someone you only talk to online asks you for money, there’s a good chance they’re a scammer. Maintain your digital relationships with caution.
Online Shopping Scams
Fake shopping sites are the order of the day. They offer products at incredibly low prices, but you never get what you pay for, or what you get is not what you expected.
How to avoid it? Before purchasing from a website, check to see if it has reviews and check to see if the URL starts with “https.” Avoid making purchases on sites that only accept untraceable payment methods, such as transfers or money orders.
