Even though surfing the web is a fun thing to do, it also has dangerous risks that can put you in harm. Internet scams have become more prevalent up until this day and can come in different forms. As an avid internet user, you must be aware of these to keep you safe online. With that said, here is a list of the common internet scams you need to know:
- Extortion
Extortion scams come in the form of emails or messages that threaten you. Moreover, the aim of these is to scare you, so you will provide what is asked. Usually, extortion scams would contain messages stating that they have your online accounts hostage. The only way to release your accounts is to provide a lump sum of money and your financial details.
When you receive extortion emails, never fall for what the message claims. Upon receiving these, immediately block the sender and create an online report on the messaging platform you use.
- Vacation rentals
Online scammers would post fake vacation rentals on trusted websites. These postings would mimic the trusted and well-reviewed ones so that people will fall for them.
So, how does one protect oneself from this type of scam? You need to do the following things:
- Check the reviews of the rental posting to see if there are other people who booked it. If there are none, avoid that as much as possible.
- Double-check the contact details provided on rental postings to see whether they are real or not.
- Verify if their payment links direct you to the same rental website. If it brings you to a different domain, that is a telltale sign of a scam.
- Dating and romance scams
Scams also exist within the online dating scene. Scammers would create fake profiles and present themselves by stealing photos of another person. Using a different name, they would create an entirely new identity to make them likeable.
People who have fallen for these scams share their experiences. The scammers would first start a good momentum to build a connection, then they end it by asking for money. Upon providing what they need, scammers would immediately block you, so you would not contact them again.
- Account failure scams
Another common online scam comes in the form of account failure emails. These would use the email handles of trusted brands that offer membership subscriptions. Simultaneously, the content of the mail would state that your account has problems with your current payment method. As such, there will be an attached link to the email.
Whatever you do, never click links from emails. Doing so will grant the scammer access to your credit cards, passwords and other sensitive data.
Surf the web safely with Jiofi
Enjoy the internet to get the entertainment you want, but you need to be vigilant as well. Use various methods to stay safe on the web and subscribe to a protected router provider such as Jiofi.