Scammers are now using sophisticated methods of getting money and personal details from their victims. That is why you should be alert and willing to protect yourself from getting scammed. Scams always look like the real thing, and many people fall for them because they don’t expect it.
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Stay Ahead of the Scammers
New internet scams are sprouting now and then, and fraudsters use a range of tactics to derive information from innocent online users. Luckily, you can be cleverer than the scammers. The first step is to boost your online security to reduce your risk and susceptibility. When handling uninvited contacts from businesses and people, whether it’s email, mail, or in person, be careful. Always consider the person as a threat first tukif. Remember that anything which looks too good to be true is likely untrue.
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Beware of Fishy Emails
Many scammers use emails to target their victims. The tactic is known as phishing, where they send emails that seem to be from legitimate senders but contain malware. Some attach files, while others leave links. When you open the links or documents, they install harmful programs on your machine. The malicious programs can steal your credit card numbers or passwords. Some programs can even spy through your microphone or webcam or transfer money from your account to the criminal’s bank.
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Update Your Internet Router
Routers can be hacked, just like accounts and computers. If the hacker controls your router, they can manipulate your encrypted internet traffic by redirecting you to other websites, using your internet to attack other companies, and injecting advertisements into your web pages. The best way out is to keep the router updated. Use your browser to log on to the router’s web interface and follow the instructions at the bottom of the router. Remember to change your new router’s admin password from the “default” password it comes with.
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Avoid Oversharing
The social media pressure is real – but you don’t have to talk about your details with anyone. Details like your mother’s maiden name, place of birth, pet’s name, and other identity data should be treated with utmost privacy. Please don’t share your phone number online because fraudsters can steal your number and hack all communications. Ensure you don’t share information that scammers use to figure out your password. You should also never trust strangers online before trust has been established. Whether you are trying to form a business relationship or find love, always be skeptical until they prove trustworthy.
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Scrutinize Website Addresses
A simple typo can make you a target for scammers. Fraudsters usually create addresses similar to the original ones, but with some misspellings on the domain and website name to scam you. Known as typo-squatting domains, the fake sites are ridden in malware and ads. Some even disguise themselves as the actual site to make you type your password. Use the browser bookmarks and search engine results to ensure you visit the right websites. If you choose to type in the address, ensure to double-check the address because an altered letter could potentially send you to a fraudster’s den.