The internet has revolutionized our lives, but it’s also opened doors for scammers trying to find new ways to make money. We look at 15 of the most common scams doing the rounds in 2024, along with tips to outsmart them:
Vishing
Phishing has been a popular scam for a number of years, with scammers using emails or texts disguised as trusted sources such as banks and social media platforms. But savvy scammers are now turning to Vishing or voice phishing. This tactic involves scammers using phone calls to impersonate legitimate organizations, such as government agencies or tech support services. They attempt to steal personal information or money. You should always verify the caller’s identity by contacting the organization directly using a known phone number.
Fake Refund Scam
This scam involves receiving a call or email claiming you’re due a refund from a company you recently used, such as Amazon or Netflix. These calls often pressure you to “verify” your account details, granting them access, but you should never give out personal information over unsolicited calls.
The Grandparent Ploy
This emotional scam targets the elderly. Scammers pretend to be a grandchild in urgent financial trouble. They do this by phone or text message, putting on dramatic stories so family members hurriedly send over their bank details. You should always verify the story directly with the loved one and never give your full bank details over the phone.
Investment Hustle
Get-rich-quick investment schemes promise high returns with little risk, so if something feels too good to be true, it probably is. You can listen to the information you are given and then investigate the opportunity thoroughly by researching it online before signing up.
The Online Romance Con
Romance scams build an online connection with people looking for love. They develop a fake emotional bond to gain the trust of people who are often vulnerable. They then invent emergencies requiring financial help, so you should be cautious of online relationships that quickly turn romantic and involve financial requests.
Delivery Code Con
In this scam, a fake delivery notification with a suspicious link arrives on your phone or email, asking you to click a link. The link then downloads malware that steals your information. Delivery companies won’t ask for personal details through text messages, so always check the authenticity of any suspicious communication. You can also go directly to the delivery company’s website and enter your postcode if you’re expecting a parcel.
Tech Support Scam
Tech support scams involve scammers posing as technical support representatives from reputable companies. They claim that there is a problem with your computer or device and often ask for remote access or payment for unnecessary services. Verify any tech support requests by contacting the company directly.
Charity Conundrum
Fake charity scams exploit people’s goodwill, especially during times of crisis or disaster. Scammers create fake charities to solicit donations. Always research charities before donating and use trusted platforms for donations. Sites like Charity Navigator offer a reliable resource for evaluating charitable organizations.
Timeshare Trap
While timeshare scams have been around for a long time, the digital age has heightened the pressure. Strong ales tactics lure you into expensive timeshare contracts with hidden fees and difficulty exiting. You should be wary of aggressive sales pitches, especially those offering “free” vacations in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation. Don’t feel pressured to decide on the spot, and take time to research and understand the contract before committing.
Fake Health Products
With ongoing health crises, scams involving fake health products, such as counterfeit medications or unproven treatments, have surged. Always purchase health products from reputable sources and consult with healthcare professionals before using new products.
Fake Friend Request
A scammer posing as a friend or acquaintance on social media sends a message with a malicious link, which is becoming more common online than ever. Be cautious of friend requests from unknown people or those with suspicious profiles. Don’t accept requests from people you don’t know; be wary of clicking on links from unfamiliar accounts.
Fake Subscription Renewals
Scammers send fake subscription renewal notices for services like antivirus software, streaming services, or magazines, tricking victims into paying for services they don’t need or already have. Verify renewal notices through official channels before making any payments.
Fake Antivirus
In these scams, pop-up warnings claim your device lacks essential antivirus software and pressure you to download a program, which itself might be malware. Use trusted antivirus software from reputable companies and update your software regularly to stay protected.
Pet Scams
Heartwarming pictures and stories about missing pets or pets in danger can be part of an elaborate scam. Scammers put emotional pressure on people to pay for a pet they will never receive or the animal arrives sick or in poor condition. Only adopt pets from reputable shelters or breeders, and if you want to donate to a pet charity, use a local service that you can verify.
Social Media Scams
Social media platforms are a breeding ground for scams, including fake giveaways, phishing attempts, and fraudulent advertisements. Scammers create fake profiles or pages to lure victims into providing personal information or making payments. Verify any offers or profiles before engaging and report suspicious activity.
The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands According to Mechanics
When choosing a car, one of the most crucial factors is reliability. But what exactly does it mean when we say a car is reliable? Reliability refers to the vehicle’s ability to perform consistently well over time with minimal issues. A reliable car requires fewer repairs, is cost-effective to maintain, and offers peace of mind to the owner. In this article, we delve into the ten most reliable car brands according to mechanics, explaining why these brands are trusted and highlighting endorsements from institutions, car experts, and reputable websites. The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands According to Mechanics
