Internet Safety: How To Spot And Avoid Scams

by

27 January 2023

Security

Avoid Scams

Individuals and businesses are at increasing risk from online scams. Let’s set the scene.

  • According to International Data Corporation, there will be more than 40 billion connected devices worldwide by 2025.
  • Cyber Ventures reported that almost four million records are stolen daily due to data breaches, which is about 45 per second.
  • And a study from Maryland University demonstrated that there is a new victim of cybercrime every 39 seconds.

Online scams are costly and potentially fatal. While many dangers exist online, raising your awareness and adopting good habits can improve your information security and internet safety.

How to Spot (and Avoid) a Scam

Phishing attempts are the primary ways people are scammed online. Scammers may send these communications via social media and text, but the overwhelming majority use email.

While phishing attacks can be specific – known as spearphishing attacks – the vast majority are sent indiscriminately. Fortunately, this spam will tend to have some giveaways. Spotting these can help protect us and our data.

Scam

Demands for Personal Information

Reputable businesses don’t ask for personal information via email or social messaging. Delivery drivers that need you to confirm your full name and address are normally bogus. Banks and government departments never ask their clients to send sensitive data such as bank account information, usernames, or passwords via email.

Offers Too Good to Be True (Probably Are)

Be suspicious when offered extremely low-price goods, services, or holidays. If it makes you wonder how they can afford to make such a deal, the answer is that they expect to add hidden fees, or the offer doesn’t exist. The sender expects to gain valuable personal information from people eager to sign up.

Claims You Have Won Something

It’s exciting to win a contest or lottery draw but ask yourself if you even entered a competition. Messages like these generate excitement and prompt people to act quickly to claim their prize.

Such communications may also suggest that you have been personally and individually selected. In a way, you have been selected, but so have thousands of other people, and not for anything good.

Terrible Spelling and Grammar

Spam is renowned for its major spelling and grammar issues. To avoid scams, remember that businesses spend thousands on marketing. They work hard to ensure their communications are attractive and error-free. If you notice spelling and grammar errors, it’s unlikely to be from a reputable business.

Fake Addresses and Other Impersonation Attempts

Scams often use impersonation to benefit from a brand’s authority. People are more likely to believe a message if it seems to be from Microsoft or the Government.

To avoid falling for this trick, check the URL or email address carefully. A scammer typically alters a business name slightly to make it seem authentic, such as the Facebook instead of Facebook or Microsoft instead of Microsoft.

If the sender claims to be from a big organization but uses a generic email account, like Gmail or Hotmail, this is also a warning.

High-Pressure Tactics

Most scams work best for criminals when the victims don’t think too deeply about their actions. Communications that insist on an urgent, immediate response should be read very carefully. Verify the details where necessary.

More on Avoiding Scams

Now that you know how to spot and avoid specific scams, here are some more tips on how to avoid scammers in general.

More on Avoiding Scams

Use Reverse Phone Lookup Services to Verify Senders’ Details

One reason the internet is such a hotbed for crime is that it’s easy for criminals to maintain anonymity. Cybercriminals can stay off the radar by using a virtual private network and dealing in wire transfers and cryptocurrency. They can pretend to be someone else, of course; your bank manager; a delivery driver; or an IT help desk technician. Or a friend or family member.

If you’re not sure who you are communicating with, use the internet to your benefit. Go to PhoneHistory or any other reverse phone lookup site to verify people’s contact details. You can do this whenever you have suspicions or simply because you’re dealing with someone you’ve not met in a physical location.

Block and Report Spam

Don’t hit reply, no matter how much you’d like to hit the sender. Giving them a piece of your mind tells them you have an active email address and that other spammers should probably target you.

Most email service providers enable you to block and/or report spam. Ideally, do both. Depending on the email system, you might need to choose “block” before you see the option to report it, or vice versa.

Blocking and reporting spam helps your email provider eliminate spam emails from your inbox. And it can help them protect other users from potentially harmful communications.

Do Not Interact with Potential Scammers

Resist the temptation to click on a link within the message if you are suspicious about the sender’s intent. Clicking a link can signal to the sender that your email address is active and cause malware to be downloaded to your device.

Malware can cause many issues, including:

  • locking you out of your machine (a distributed denial of service attack (DDoS));
  • encrypting your data unless you pay a ransom for the decryption key (ransomware);
  • installing software that allows a third party to track your activities and/or keypresses (spyware).

Read Privacy Notices

Since the implementation of GDPR cybersecurity regulations, a pop-up frequently appears on visiting a website,  inviting you to read their privacy policy and asking you to confirm your preferences regarding cookies.

Most websites are reputable with good intent. Sometimes, however, they are willing to sell the information they learn about you to third parties, who may send you anything from unsolicited marketing emails to harmful, targeted scams.

If you don’t have the patience to read every privacy notice, it is still worthwhile saying no to all but essential cookies. It’s quicker than it seems. And make sure to deny the company’s permission to contact you or share your data unless you trust them.

Conclusion

Internet safety can seem daunting, but most people don’t think twice about improving their car security, home security, and personal safety.  Stay observant, check out the identities of people you haven’t developed relationships with yet, and employ a few other good internet habits to keep you, your friends, and your family safe online.

Additional:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

antivirus for Chromebook

Top 10 Antivirus For Chromebook In 2022

Today, we all use a hell of the software comprising lots of malware and antiviruses. For example, there are several antivirus for Chromebook. So you need to select the correct one at your end. You have to understand these facts, which can help you make things work well in your way. You will get to know some of the core factors from this article. Proper planning can make things work well in your way within a stipulated time frame.  Best Antivirus For Chrome Book In 2022 Several antiviruses for chrome books can safeguard your system from damage to software. But, first, you have to identify the facts that can help you make things work well in your way. 1. Avast Antivirus Avast Antivirus was launched by Eduard Kucera and Pavel Baudi in 1988. It is one of the safest antiviruses we can look through in 2022. Therefore, you need to identify these facts while you want to achieve your goals. The Best Antivirus For Chromebooks Are As Follows:- It offers effective password management against the hacker's defense. Ensure Speedier connection to the antivirus Chromebooks. It offers the WIfi inspections to make things work in your way.  Its price ranges from $29.99 to $ 39.99 2. Malware Bytes Security Malware Bytes offers specially managed Chromebook technologies. It targets the malware, software, and potentially unwanted programs. In most cases, it protects your browser from browser hijackers. Some of the core advantages of Malware Bytes Security are as follows:- It will help you in fighting the scams. It helps in safeguarding personal information and screening the malware. It offers four-layer protection to keep the browser and software protection safe from any infections. It keeps the software packages safe from infection. Make a selection for the free antivirus for Chromebook. The prices of this antivirus may range between $49.99 to $89.99 3. Avira Antivirus Avira Antivirus for Chromebook is one of the best built-in Antivirus for the chrome book. It offers maximum protection at a minimum time frame. You need to know these facts while achieving your goals effectively. Some of its core advantages are as follows:- It analyzes the local files and safeguards local data from any kind of disastrous attacks. It protects the PIN of your apps. Optimizes the VPN monitor apps. It does not slow down your PC. Its price ranges from $35.99 to $82.99 4. AVG Antivirus It offers anti-theft options to help you remove the malware in real-time. AVG technologies created this malware. It is a free antivirus for Chromebook. It will provide maximum exposure within a shorter time frame. Some Of the advantages of AVG Antivirus are as follows:- It offers high-class security to your browser. You can select up to 10 devices to protect yourself with this antivirus. It comprises an intelligent scanner. The anti-theft and camera trap camera for the users. Its price ranges from $26.99 to $35.99 5. Bite Finder Antivirus Free Bite Finder is another best Antivirus program that can help you make things work well in your way. It offers outstanding malware protection that can help you make things work in your way at the right time. The benefits of Bitdefender Antivirus Are As Follows:- It helps to protect the user's personal information and bank account protection. It protects you against nefarious criminal acts. Reduces the chances of email threats and data breaches. It can block harmful websites to make things work well in your way. The price of the Bite Finder will range from $39.99 to $89.99 6. Total AV The Total AV is one of the best free antiviruses for the chrome book. Moreover, it is one of the best antiviruses you must have with you to protect your valuable data from hackers' clutches. You need to know these facts while you want to gain momentum in the work process. The benefits of Total AV Are As Follows:- It safeguards users against malwares and apps. Harmful apps and extensions cannot affect the user. The price of this Total AV ranges from $19-$59 per year. 7. ESET ESET are some of the common antiviruses for chrome books that can help you to protect yourself from the scope of data breaches. You need to identify some of the core advantages of this Chromebook to make things work well in your way. The benefits of ESET are as follows:- It protects the users from malware scanning technologies. It will warn you about some of the potential dangers. Comprises a user-friendly interface. The prices may range from $39.99 to $59.99 8. Scan Guard It is also one of the best antiviruses for Chromebook which will scan the data in real-time. It can help you to achieve your objectives effectively. Some of the advantages of Chromebook Antivirus Are As follows:- It is quarantined and removes the malware from your browser. Adware Trojans and viruses are the best solutions for it. Across different platforms, it offers maximum security. The scan guard plan ranges from $24.95 yearly. 9. Kaspersky Internet Security Kaspersky is one of the most antiviruses for malware protection as it fosters a higher rate of productivity. It can help you to achieve your objectives of protecting the browser effectively. Some of its advantages are as follows:- It offers malware-free online content. Users are making use of the virtual keyboard. Prevents personal information from being leaked. Its prices range from $39.99 per year. 10. Norton 360 Norton antivirus for Chromebook is another best antivirus that can provide your browser with absolute security within a shorter span of time. It can make things work well in your way at the right time. Some of the core advantages of Norton 360 are as follows:- The android app can work great on chrome. It offers 100% protection against malware. Lifelock was remarkably useful. Offers Excellent Customer service. Its price ranges from $19-$39.66 per year. FAQ (Frequently Asked Question): 1. Should You Put Antivirus On The Chromebook? Yes! Chromebook is most immune to malware. This is because it has built-in security features. In most cases, it is not a hundred percent safe but still good enough to remove the antivirus. Due to this fact, you have to understand these matters to make things work well in your way. 2. What Is The Best Virus Guard In 2022? One of the best antivirus today is Bite Defender. You may be familiar with Avast, Macfee, and AVG. Bitdefender antivirus plus is one of the best virus guards in 2022, which you need to consider at your end while using for your system security. 3. What Is The Best Antivirus For 2022? Bite defender is one of the best antiviruses for 2022, which you must consider at your end while you make use of it. Ensure that you do not make your selection the wrong way while achieving your goals effectively. It can make things easier and more effective for achieving your objectives. 4. Is Bitefinder Still The Best? It is top-of-the-world antivirus software that can help you make things work well in your way at the correct point in time. It is one of the best AV comparatives products for the year award, which you will receive four times a year. Ensure that you do not make your selection in the wrong way. 5. Is Kaspersky Better Than Bite Finder? No Bitefinder is better than Kaspersky. Kaspersky offers a 99.5% protection rate, whereas Bitefinder provides a 99.9% protection rate. Therefore, it can make things better for you to achieve your goals. You need to choose the right track to achieve your goals. Final Take Away Hence, these are some of the best antiviruses for Chromebook which you can try at your end in 2022. You need to know these facts while you want to achieve your goals effectively. Before selecting the antivirus, ensure its capacity to protect your Chromebook efficiently. Feel free to share your views, ideas, and opinions to make things work well in your way. However, ensure you do not make your selection in an error-free way while achieving your objectives. The more you can think actively, the better you can reach your goals. These are some of the core factors to make things work well in your way at the right time. Ensure that your selection must be made on the right track. Effective planning can help you to achieve your objectives in the right way. Read Also: 5 Tips to Improve Your Internet Privacy How To Fix A Hacked Android Phone? Five Tips to Make Sure Your Security Software Its Actually Secure

READ MOREDetails
Security Cameras

Deciphering the Myths About Home Security Cameras

Security cameras are the in-thing today. They are used in many homes as a way of enhancing security. However, despite the fact that they are common; there are many wrong perceptions about them. Surveillance cameras usually play a key role to fortify your house. These home security cameras can be installed in either the indoor or outdoor areas of your home. They are used to capture the photos and footages of possible intruders. Since home security cameras are significant in safeguarding your home, you must know the misconceptions about them. This will enable you not to pay due regard to these misconceptions. By doing this, the effectiveness of your home security system will not be affected. Here are six myths about home security cameras; All Security Cameras Serve the Same Purpose: Many people think that all security cameras are the same, so they can serve the same purpose. As asserted by Tech Web Space, this is not true. There are many types of security cameras. They all work differently. Each of them is designed to fulfill a distinct security need. For instance; there are dome, bullet, and IR day/night cameras. Bullet and dome cameras can only be installed in indoor areas, while IR day/night cameras can only be put in outdoor areas. So, a dome camera is effective to monitor your staff; while an IR day/night camera is effective to prevent burglary. Also, IP security cameras can record a video of the ongoing activities of an intruder; while other normal surveillance cameras cannot. There is no security camera which can fulfill two roles at the same time. So, you should know your major security problem which you intend to address. With this problem in mind, you can then choose the most appropriate type of security camera. Security Cameras Are Super Heroes: When some people purchase a security camera, they tend to think that they have solved all their security issues. They believe that their houses will be fortified by the virtue of them possessing a security camera system. They equate home surveillance cameras to superheroes in regard to matters of security. This is a very wrong perception. As much as you buy a security camera, you should still take other appropriate measures to safeguard your home. Security cameras can be limited in discharging their functions. For instance; bullet and dome camera types will not function well in dim lighting. Also, when you don’t position your camera well; you may create a blind spot. This blind spot will give a leeway which will allow criminals to operate in. It Is Very Easy to Install a Security Camera: You cannot learn to install a security camera after watching some few DIY tutorials. Installing a security camera is a difficult task that requires some specific skills. You will have to be equipped with basic scientific knowledge. You will also have to understand how to match the lighting conditions and the recording angle with the camera capabilities. This is not something which you can learn within a few minutes. So, never attempt to install a security camera by yourself. You can only attempt to do so when you have received appropriate guidance. You may tamper with it right from day one. Instead, as provided for by Tweak Your Biz; you should contact your security company which will help you out with the installation. You Can Use a Dummy Camera Instead of a Real One to Keep Off Intruders: Of course, there are some foolish robbers who can be frightened off at the sight of a dummy home security camera. However, this trick will not work well with an experienced thief. In fact, most thieves can detect a non-authentic camera at an arm’s length. So, never go for shortcuts. Use real home security cameras, not fake ones. Home Security Cameras Are Expensive: It is only in the past ages when home security cameras were a reserve of the rich. Nowadays, surveillance cameras are affordable to all and sundry. There are many security companies today. This has enhanced market competitiveness. Different companies are using different strategies to have an edge over each other. This has significantly reduced the costs of security cameras. Moreover, their operation and installation costs are cheap. Home Security Cameras Are Only Used to Keep Off Intruders: Apart from preventing the entry of intruders, surveillance cameras can serve others more purposes. For instance; you can use them to monitor your employees in your servicing business. You can also use them to check on your kids’ activities when you are away from home. Though security cameras are mainly used to prevent crime, they can improve your general living standards. With them, your daily tasks will be simpler and more effectively done. Conclusion: All in all, surveillance cameras will grant you immense assistance in safeguarding your home. They will keep off intruders, reduce crime rates and, prevent robbery and burglary. Therefore, you should not allow these myths to restrain you from owning one. Read Also: How To Improve Workplace Security WiFi Security: Mediocrity To Excellence Why DRM Is the New Standard for Document Security

READ MOREDetails
Online tools

Identify Malicious Emailers With Online Tools

Email and various online tools have become a valuable means of communication among business users and individuals over the years. Many of us now use email daily for work purposes and get in touch with friends, family, or businesses that we are dealing with. When you use email, you can benefit from a convenient and speedy method of communication, and you can even send attachments and documents instantly to people. Unfortunately, another group of people who turn to email technology is scammers, and there are all sorts of email scams that have done the rounds over the years. On top of this, email technology is also used by people with similarly questionable motives, such as those sending abusive, malicious, and even threatening emails to others.  Naturally, steps need to be taken in all of these situations. Among many AI-powered online tools, online email lookup is an excellent example of a perfect online tool to provide a fast solution. Why Are Online Tools A Simple And Effective Solution? These online tools are the solution that provides valuable and simple clarification for both businesses and individuals who want to learn more about malicious emailers and scammers. It can possibly provide a range of information that can help identify who is behind the emails. Some of the information that you can find out by using these tools could include:      The real name of the person linked to the email address      Age of the person      Any criminal history      Address details      Social media profiles of the person With all of this information in hand, it makes it far easier for you to identify whether suspicious emails you receive are from scammers. In addition, it makes it easier for you to find out who has been sending the emails, which then means that you can take action with far greater ease and speed. The Advantages Of Using The Online Tools One of the great things about using these tools to help identify malicious and scam email senders is the simplicity involved in using them. In addition, you can access the tools with ease online, which means that you can conduct your research from the privacy and comfort of your own home or place of work.  All you need to identify email senders is the actual email address you are suspicious about, and you can then run a search against this online using these tools. Once you have done the search, you could have far more detail about the sender, and this can make it much easier to make informed decisions. You will be able to tell whether the emails are scam ones rather than from bona fide emails.  In addition, if you have received malicious emails, you may be able to find details of the person linked to that email address. Once you have details such as these, you can report them to the relevant authorities to take action. Online tools are helping you to identify the suspicious activity on your accounts and find the source of the mails. However, spam emails are the biggest challenge for any personal and professional mail handers. Even the spammy mail, the hackers are also trying to enter into your system. When you are using the online AI-powered tool, you can block and identify the source of the spam emails. Often the young people face many troubles, and the stalkers are tracking them down from their social media profiles. When you are using online tools to track the source of spam emails or malicious emails, you will find the stalker’s address, social media profiles, and many other documents that are enough to file a report to the police authority. Conclusion: As you can see, these online tools can prove invaluable in terms of helping those who are being subjected to these types of emails. This can help reduce the stress of this situation and get them sorted out with speed and efficiency. Your safety is the most priority. From your social media profile, everyone can track down many other details about you. So if you are facing this type of trouble, first identify the source then take legal actions against them. Read Also: 6 Benefits of Microsoft 365 Security 5 Tips to Improve Your Internet Privacy Ways Of Protecting Your Privacy Online

READ MOREDetails