How to Recognize an Online Scam?

Have you ever shopped online and felt like you were getting scammed? Or, tried applying for a job through LinkedIn and felt the same? It isn’t easy to know if you are dealing with an online scam. 

Here’s how you can recognize these scams:

3 Common Ways Scammers Can Target You Online

1. Romance Scams

Criminals create fake online dating profiles on apps and sites to start a relationship with someone. These online romance scammers exploit your vulnerabilities and create a quick, strong emotional connection they can use to make profits. 

For instance, take the military romance scams. The fraudster pretends to be stationed somewhere far where an in-person meeting is impossible. They rely on this online relationship to build trust and start asking for money, expensive gifts, etc., as soon as you’re hooked. 

2. Online Shopping Scams

Now, even on platforms like Amazon, sellers can engage in scams. In online shopping scams, the seller pretends to sell an expensive item at lower prices (on sites like Instagram and Facebook). They often use hacked accounts of other legit sellers to avoid suspicion. 

After receiving a confirmation email and payment is deducted from your account, you wouldn’t receive anything from them or receive a fake product. 

3. Phishing Texts, Calls, Emails

In phishing scams, cyber-criminals send unsolicited texts or emails claiming to be trustworthy organizations. They may ask you to click on links and provide personal information (like passwords and credit card numbers) that goes directly to the scammers. 

How to Spot an Online Scam?

Here are a few signs:

1. They use authority to lower your guard and build trust. These messages can come from legit-looking companies like the IRS, etc.

2. They contact you unexpectedly. If something like this happens, verify their identity by calling their business or agency directly. 

3. They prey on your emotions, especially when it comes to online dating. These fraudsters can also pretend to be a Veteran Charity scam where they pretend to be people in need. 

4. They become threatening or aggressive. Scammers often pretend to be from the FBI and ask you to comply; otherwise, they would put out a warrant.