The web has changed how we communicate, shop, and do business. Along with the revolution comes an imminent threat—the threat of internet scams. Spam emails, imitation websites cloned from imitation sites, identity theft, and internet scams are what the cybercrimes use to hit innocent consumers blindfolded. Information on the same and avoiding them will prove helpful to you in terms of web security.
Let us cover the most common internet scams and how to avoid them, and some simple security advice on how to protect yourself.
1. Most Common Internet Scams
1. Phishing Scams
How it works: Spammers spam you with phishing messages or emails on behalf of reputable organizations such as banks, government, or technical support. They make you click on spam links or provide them with sensitive data.
Example: You receive an email stating, “Your bank account has been hacked. Click here to verify your information.”
How to Avoid It:
- Don’t click on an unknown link or attachment.
- Inspect the sender’s e-mail address beforehand before you act.
- Call the company on the phone using official means.
2. Spurious E-Commerce Websites
How it works: The scammers create fake online stores selling popular items at prices that are just too good to be true. You pay but never receive the product—or worse, you have your payment info stolen.
Example: A website sells designer handbags at 80% off but after payment, the product never arrives.
How to Avoid It:
- Shop only from genuine e-commerce websites like Amazon, Lazada, or Shopee.
- Verify HTTPS on site URL for secure payment.
- Verify customer reviews and be cautious of red flags including no returns policy or suspicious site design.
3. Online Investment & Cryptocurrency Scams
Operation: Bogus investment opportunities with extremely high returns and little or no risk. Operations tend to be built on fictitious trading platforms, Ponzi schemes, or fictitious captures of crypto wallets.
Example: You come across an advertisement that says, “Invest $100 in Bitcoin and earn $1,000 in a week!”
How to Avoid:
- Never invest funds in ‘get-rich-quick’ plans.
- Invest via proper investment websites like Binance, Coinbase, or eToro.
- Research any investment properly before investing in it.
4. Romance Scams
How it works: Internet scammers build emotional relationships with victims by creating fake social networking or dating profiles and subsequently ask for money.
Example: A person you’ve encountered on the web informs you of an emergency situation and a requirement for cash, but refuses to meet you face-to-face.
How to Avoid:
- Be vigilant for speed-flaming on the web relationships.
- Never hand over money to a person that you’ve not met in real life.
- Reverse-searching of profile photos so others don’t impersonate others.
5. Tech Support & Ransomware Scams
How it works: You get a call or are asked through a spoofed call or pop-up by “tech support” that your computer has a virus. The scammer convinces you to give them remote access to your computer or purchase bogus antivirus software.
Example: A pop-up window displays, “Your PC is infected! Call this number for immediate help.”
How to Avoid It:
- Don’t dial pop-up numbers—genuine tech companies never request remote access.
- Update your antivirus and perform regular scans on your computer.
- Avoid downloading software from unknown websites.
2. Simple Cyber Security Precautions to Protect Yourself against Internet Threats
To protect yourself against internet threats, follow these simple but effective cybersecurity measures:
- Secure Passwords & Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Have a different password for every account.
- Enable 2FA for sensitive accounts such as banking and email.
- Store login details with password managers securely.
- Do not Trust Unreliable Messages
- Do not click on links in unsolicited emails or open dubious websites.
- Look for misspellings in “official” e-mail messages.
- Verify with the company itself first before you act.
- Keep Your Software & Antivirus Current
- Utilize and install antivirus software to look for malware.
- Update your operating system and software in order to close security loopholes to install.
- Check Before You Pay or Invest
- Websites of shopping websites and investment websites before payment.
- Ask for secure payment methods like credit cards and PayPal.
- Secure Your Wi-Fi Connection
- Create a strong home Wi-Fi password.
- Turn on network encryption (WPA3 or WPA2).
- Turn off remote access and guest networks when not in use.
- Learn & Stay Informed
- Keep yourself updated with the latest scams and cyber attacks.
- Keep current on cybersecurity experts and credible sources for breaking news.
3. What to Do if You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve been cheated, don’t delay:
- Report It – Report it to the local police, banks, and cybercrime reporting agencies.
- Freeze Your Accounts – If you’ve disclosed bank information, call your bank to freeze your account.
- Scan for Malware – If you’ve opened something suspicious, scan your computer for malware.
- Warn Others – Inform others so they won’t become cheated.
Conclusion: Stay Smart, Stay Safe Online
The Internet is a portion of our life that will never go away but is also the playground of the cyber criminals. Being aware of what the most prevalent scams are, using a few simple steps to implement cybersecurity, and exercising care while buying online can ensure you do not become an internet scam victim.
Do you need expert online security guidance on how to secure your internet? Dial sizaf Infocomm today. We offer secure internet solutions for your internet security.
Contact us for more information:
Malaysia: +6 011 3600 0534
USA: +1 516 880 9996
Did you get scammed online? Let us know in the comments below what happened and keep others safe as well.
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