Everyone needs to be aware of common online scams these days. Almost every cyber crook present is looking to scam someone for the sake of money and free goods. But users can take steps to protect themselves. They can protect themselves and their loved ones from getting scammed during the holiday season.

The holiday season is here. It is the season to be jolly, and also the perfect time to be shopping for gifts. Yet people need to be careful of all the hustle and bustle the season has. Online scams are disguised in the online hustle and bustle. These very scams can catch unsuspecting customers and shoppers off guard.

Online scams are targeting a lot of people. Whether they shop online, browse social media, or browse the net; they should be aware of the following scams common during the season.

Be aware of phishing emails

Phishing emails are a top concern for everyone. They are deceptive messages that attempt to trick users into revealing sensitive information. Passwords, pin codes, debit/credit card numbers, usernames, and other key information used for making logins and transactions are what these crooks want.

This is why users must always verify the authentic nature of emails. They should be cautious whenever someone asks them for personal details in any manner. They do seem too good to be true but they are not true. They are false emails. Advanced malware detection software these days can detect them and delete them. Plus they block those email addresses too.

Faux shopping websites

Fake shopping sites are common. They look real and may feel real, but are not real. Scammers set them up to steal financial information (card-related). This results in them using customers’ cards and details in making purchases. 

Users can protect themselves from these scams by researching about companies before buying. This is why search engines exist. No fake store would ever be having a top ranking. Reading customer reviews, and checking for secure payment methods (online card payment, PayPal) along with payment options is a must. 

Moreover, that store should run smoothly else it will be proven as fake. If it has a suspicious look and has low-quality graphics and spelling errors, then it is a sign that the website is illegitimate.

Faux charities are often set to take advantage of people’s generous attitudes

Cybercrooks often take advantage of people’s generous nature during the holiday season. They create fake charities and solicit donations from unsuspecting victims. People must verify the credentials of these companies via the Better Business Bureau, Charity Navigator, and other reputed bodies.

Additionally, no user should ever think of giving out their credit card number either via email or through the phone. They should always check for secure payment methods or direct bank transfers, if possible.

Beware of fake social media profiles – They are on the rise

These scams have recently become common. A lot of scammers will make them to send unsuspecting people messages. They look like coming from someone they know so they can gain access to sensitive information. The information they ask for is usually bank account numbers, usernames, passwords, email addresses, and debit/credit card numbers.

Users must always verify the profiles they encounter on social media. If they find out that it is fake then should notify the authorities immediately.

Online dating scams – the oldest trick in the book

Lonely people do exist. They cannot and should not be ostracized. Dating scams are common during the holiday season. They make fake profiles to trick people and obtain access to their personal information, or to finances via fraudulent promises of companionship, friendship, love, and vice versa.

This is why users should always research those whom they meet online. They should be careful of meeting them in person. Never send them money without verifying their identity first.

Suspicious downloads – they can infect computers and devices with malware

Numerous downloads are malicious. They often ruin and damage the devices of unsuspecting users especially if they are not careful. Scammers disguise them as free games, free movies, free songs, and vice versa. They look harmless but once they are devices, they can steal personal information, lock them up, and force users into paying ransom.

This is why apps, software, and other things should be downloaded from trusted sites and stores.