With the benefits and convenience of online and internet activities, also come the risks. But even as the major players fine-tune and harden their apps and security measures, the scammers and fraudsters are also not sleeping!
Here are the common tricks and strategies of online internet scammers and fraudsters; and what you can do to protect yourself. Please read on…
Scammers appeal to your sense of GREED
Many of us want to get something for nothing; many of us want to get a whole lot for too little. Fraudsters and scammers understand this psychology and they use it effectively by making you bogus offers and deals that are too good to true.
Remember, nothing good comes easy. If it sounds too good to be true, it is most likely a trick, a trap, a fraud or a scam. Act with caution.
Scammers create a sense of URGENCY
No one wants to lose out of a fantastic opportunities, offers or bargains. Again, scammers and fraudsters understand this psychology and they use it effectively through attention grabbing fantastic offers that require you to take action immediately or lose out. Don't allow them to rush you into action!
Critically examine and re-appraise such offers. Search for similar offers on other platforms on the internet; compare and contrast, before you take action.
Scammers create a sense of PANIC
No one wants to loose hard earned money kept in a bank account. Yes, scammers and fraudsters understand this psychology and they use it effectively by sending you text messages, emails and phone calls aimed at creating fear of loss, and thereby activating your panic mode; and in the process obtain your personal and sensitive bank account information.
Don’t fall for it! Always disregard text messages, emails and phone calls asking for your sensitive bank account information, in the guise that they want to save you from losing your money.
See examples below:
“DEAR CUSTOMER, YOUR ACCOUNT HAS BEEN HACKED, SEND YOUR CARD DETAILS SO WE CAN HELP YOU BLOCK IT IMMEDIATELY.”
“Dear Customer, you have been debited ₦2,000 as Subscription Fee for the Bank's monthly Digest Magazine; this charge will continue every month until you unsubscribe or cancel. To cancel click here (a link is placed for you to click).
Scammers appeal to your sense of CURIOSITY
Curiosity is human nature. Scammers and fraudsters understand this psychology and they use it to advantage by sending you unsolicited text messages, emails, or direct messages on social media, containing attachments and external links.
If any attachments or links look suspicious, stay on the side of caution! Do some verification before you open any attachment or click on a link in emails and messages, for the simple reason that they may be phishing links, or contain virus and ransom-ware.
Related: SCAM Alert: This Old Financial Scam is Still Potent - Don’t Fall for it!
Related: Scam Alert: Bros! Shine Your Eyes!
Related: The Monkey Business Story
Stay Smart, Wealthy and Wise!
