Internet scams are widespread and constantly changing. These are five common scams, how they work, and some examples.

1. Phishing Scams

How They Work: Phishing scams involve cybercriminals posing as legitimate organizations to trick individuals into revealing personal information, such as passwords, credit card details, or Social Security numbers. They often come in the form of emails, text messages, or phone calls that look authentic and create a sense of urgency.

Example: You receive an email that appears to be from your bank, stating that your account has been compromised. The email includes a link that takes you to a fake website that looks like the real bank’s site, prompting you to log in or update your details. Once you do, scammers capture your credentials and can access your actual account.

2. Online Shopping Scams

How They Work: Scammers set up fake online stores that look legitimate and offer attractive deals or rare items at low prices. When victims make a purchase, the scammer takes the money but never delivers the product or delivers counterfeit goods.

Example: You see a heavily discounted offer for a designer handbag on a website that looks genuine. After paying for it, you either receive a cheap knockoff or nothing at all, and your attempts to contact customer service go unanswered.

3. Tech Support Scams

How They Work: Scammers pose as tech support representatives from well-known tech companies, claiming that your device is infected with malware or has technical issues. They often contact you by phone or through a pop-up warning on your screen, prompting you to call a number or download software that gives them access to your device.

Example: A pop-up on your computer screen states that your system has been infected with a virus and urges you to call a phone number for assistance. The “technician” then convinces you to pay for unnecessary services or install malicious software that compromises your personal information.

4. Romance Scams

How They Work: These scams usually take place on dating websites or social media. Scammers create fake profiles to establish relationships with victims and build trust over time. Once they have gained the victim’s trust, they fabricate an urgent financial need and ask for money.

Example: You meet someone on a dating site who seems perfect. After weeks or months of exchanging messages and phone calls, they tell you about an emergency, such as needing funds for a medical procedure or travel expenses. You send money, but they disappear once they’ve received it.

5. Investment Scams

How They Work: Investment scams promise high returns with little risk. Scammers use fake websites, social media ads, or direct messages to convince victims to invest in bogus projects or schemes, such as cryptocurrency or real estate, that don’t exist.

Example: A social media post promises guaranteed returns on a new cryptocurrency venture. You invest money and even see small payouts at first to gain trust. However, when you invest more or try to withdraw a significant amount, the scammers disappear, taking your investment with them.

Tips to Avoid These Scams

• Verify sources: Double-check the sender’s email address or contact details.
• Use secure websites: Ensure that the sites that you visit use “https” and show a padlock icon before entering personal information.
• Be skeptical: Offers or requests for money that sound too good to be true usually are.
• Avoid sharing personal information: Don’t give out personal or financial information unless you’re certain of the recipient’s legitimacy.
• Research thoroughly: Look up unfamiliar businesses or contacts to verify their credibility before engaging further.