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How to report scams in Canada: a simple guide

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How to report scams in Canada: a simple guide

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Scams come in many forms-whether it is a suspicious text, a phishing email, an unexpected phone call, or a fake website. Scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people, but you can protect yourself by staying alert. If you ever suspect you have been targeted by a scam, it is important to report it right away. Doing so helps keep you safe, protects others, and makes it harder for scammers to succeed.

1. It helps to protect others: When you report a scam, you are helping spread the word. Your report could prevent someone else from falling into the same trap.

2. It helps to shut down scammers: Law enforcement and fraud prevention agencies use reports to track down and stop scammers. The more reports they receive, the better they can crack down on fraudsters.

3. It can keep your money safe: Reporting a scam quickly can help you secure your accounts and reduce the chance that your money will be stolen. Your bank and credit card company may also suggest protective measures to protect your accounts.

Common types of scams you can report

Text scams (smishing): These scams arrive by text to your mobile phone and often look like they are from legitimate companies, like your bank or a federal and provincial government agency.

Phishing emails: These emails try to trick you into sharing personal information by pretending to be from trusted organizations and can contain malicious links designed to help scammers steal your personal or financial information.

Phone scams: Scammers call pretending to be from your bank, a government office, or even a loved one in trouble, asking for money or personal info.

Fake websites: These sites look like real businesses but are actually set up to steal your data, credit card info or money.

Here is a breakdown of where you can report different types of scams in Canada:

1. Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)

The CAFC collects reports on all types of fraud and scams. By reporting to them, you are helping keep yourself and others safe.

If you have shared financial information or sent money in a scam, contact your bank or credit card company right away. They can help stop transactions and secure your accounts.

You can report spam easily and for free by forwarding it via text message to 7726 (SPAM). Doing so helps to identify new types of spam messages and improve the filters used by telecommunications to block scam texts.

4. Report fraudulent websites to the Competition Bureau

If you come across a fake website, report it to the Competition Bureau, which helps enforce laws against misleading marketing practices.

5. Report to Local Police

If the scam involves a large financial loss or serious identity theft, you should also report it to your local police department. Most police departments offer non-emergency fraud reporting either online or by phone.

What to Do After You Report

Keep records: Save all communications related to the scam and document your reports to the authorities.

Monitor your accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank, credit card, and online accounts for any unusual activity.

Stay updated: The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre regularly posts updates about ongoing scams, so check back to stay informed. You can also subscribe to the Canadian Bankers Association's free Fraud Prevention Tip email newsletter.

Reporting scams is one of the best ways you can protect yourself and others. It only takes a few minutes, but it can make a big difference. Even if you are not sure if something is a scam, it is always better to report it and let the experts investigate. When we all stay alert and report suspicious activity, we make it harder for scammers to succeed

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How to report scams in Canada: a simple guide

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Scams come in many forms-whether it is a suspicious text, a phishing email, an unexpected phone call, or a fake website. Scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people, but you can protect yourself by staying alert. If you ever suspect you have been targeted by a scam, it is important to report it right away.

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Reporting spam text messages to 7726 - Get Cyber Safe

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Reporting spam text messages to 7726 - Get Cyber Safe

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Reporting spam text messages to 7726 - Get Cyber Safe

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Scam text messages are common and can be tough to manage. Find out how you can help block them from your phone.

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Warning: Fraudulent text messages in circulation | A25

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Fraudulent text messages urging people to click on fake internet links to pay a bill are in circulation. This technique, known as phishing, is often used by fraudsters. When a person clicks on the link, they may unwittingly transmit personal information, which may include, among other things, their banking details. We apologize for any inconvenience …

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18 Common Online Scams In Canada – And How Not To Be The Next Victim | moneyGenius

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18 Common Online Scams In Canada – And How Not To Be The Next Victim | moneyGenius

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Online scams are increasing in frequency, causing hard working Canadians to lose large sums of money, their personal finance information, their homes, and their sense of security.

We spend a lot of time online - thanks to our smartphones, tablets, and other convenient devices - and criminals are taking advantage of our online presence. As new types of technology and software develop, so do the methods scammers use to steal from us.

If you're wondering what the most common types of scams are and how you can avoid them, you're not alone. There are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from falling prey to these unfortunate situations.

5 online scams directed at shoppers

We all know we're supposed to be careful while online shopping, and these scams are exactly why we hear this safety bit preached so often.

Make an effort to be a smart shopper so you don't fall for these scams.

1. Receiving counterfeit products

It used to be that you'd mostly encounter counterfeit products when shopping in person at sketchy retailers, or maybe from street vendors looking to trick you out of a few dollars.

Nowadays, scam artists have an easier time manipulating shoppers through the internet. Fake retail websites, knockoff products, and unsolicited links are all means by which these criminals try to make money by pulling the wool over our eyes.

And it works - the Vancouver Sun reports that online shopping scams accounted for nearly 1/3 of all reported scams in Canada in 2021.

This type of scams can manifest in several ways:

Ordering brand-name products but receiving knockoffs

Receiving goods you didn't order at all

3rd-party marketplace sellers selling defective or low-quality products

Sometimes you'll encounter an online seller obviously selling knockoffs, but other times their products look to be genuine and of good quality - but the order you receive from them is anything but.

Source: Reddit

2. Watch for fake retailers

So you're surfing through Facebook and see an ad for a cool tshirt with a hilarious slogan you've never seen before, click on it, and find yourself on an odd-looking site. But the tshirt is really fun, so you order it anyway.

But that tshirt never arrives. Yup, you fell prey to a fake retailer.

Fake retailers can get you in a few ways. They might never send you the items you purchased, or they might offer luxury items for low prices that seem too good to be true.

Either way, you've put your faith in a company that either doesn't exist or exists for purposes other than what they claim to stand for.

And because the online retail space is so fluid, these companies could completely vanish (and likely, rebrand themselves to keep the scam going) within minutes of your purchase.

3. Fake reviews are a thing

Have you ever noticed a listing on Amazon that one day has a certain number of reviews and the next day has about a thousand more? Or maybe there's a single poster or even posters with suspiciously similar usernames who've left multiple posts?

Chances are, most of these reviews are fake.

Sometimes these reviews are generated by bots and sometimes they're written by actual people who are hired to pump up a product or are given free products in return for glowing reviews.

Sometimes, it's the devious company's expert copywriters who are asked to write legitimate-sounding reviews that make the product sound like the next big thing.

The point is to mislead shoppers into thinking that these items are more reliable and of better quality than they really are.

Luckily, there are some sites and services (not affiliated with Amazon) that can help you determine whether a review is legit or not. Fakespot is a browser add-on that can analyze reviews as you shop, and ReviewMeta is a site where you input the URL of the product you're looking at, and it provides a new rating based on only the legitimate reviews.

4. Mystery shoppers

For many people, being paid to shop is a dream come true. You'll want to be careful of any ads you see online looking for mystery shoppers, though.

In a legitimate secret shopper job, the company will reimburse you for any amount you spend at the retailer or business you're checking out, and you'll be paid a fee for your services. Any ad that mentions other arrangements is likely a scam.

If you do see an ad that looks promising, take note of these details:

You should never have to pay to become a mystery shopper.

Ignore ads that claim you'll make extraordinary amounts of money.

Paying for a list of mystery shopper opportunities shouldn't be necessary.

Don't ever wire money as part of your shopping assignment.

Depositing cheques into your own bank account and then sending money back to the "company" isn't necessary - don't do it.

Any ads or job listings that include any of the above information are likely fraudulent opportunities.

5. Tricks with overpayment

Here is a type of scam that targets sellers instead of buyers with clever tactics involving overpayment.

Sometimes, a fake buyer might purchase your item on Etsy, Kijiji, Marketplace, or wherever, and send you way more money than you were asking for. It's only after you've sent them a refund for the difference that you realize the payment was fraudulent to begin with.

This kind of fraud often involves cheques for sales you've listed in newspapers or somewhere similar. The cheque they send is a fake, but you won't find out until the bank processes it and alerts you.

In 2021, the RCMP issued warnings about just such a scam involving fraudulent cheques in Kelowna, BC. Both business and personal cheques were involved, indicating that we should all be wary even if we receive an official-looking cheque.

8 phishing online scams

You've probably heard the term "phishing" before and wondered exactly what it means.

The Government of Canada defines it as a scam that comes in the form of an email and "attempt[s] to gain your personal or financial information."

"Smishing" is a similar scam format, but these come via text message.

However they get to you, these messages come in a wide range of forms and formats, so watch out.

6. Nigerian prince emails

The Nigerian prince email scam, or 419 fraud, is probably the one most commonly talked about. It's been around for a long time too - the email version was first noticed in 1980s when email was first taking off as a form of communication.

These days, you won't get anything handwritten, but you might receive an email or other form of communication from someone claiming to be overseas, wealthy, and unable to access their funds. You'll be asked for either your bank account number (allegedly for transferring money to you) or an advance payment (they'll pay you back later).

Unfortunately, many people still fall victim to these scams. An NBC article from 2019 claimed that there were more than 20,000 reports of these incidents in 2018 alone. Victims are often too ashamed to come forward, so it's possible the true number of these crimes is far larger.

This scam has become so ubiquitous, it's now a part of pop culture. There have been books written, movies and TV shows made, and plenty of other pop culture references. Actress Anne Hathaway even made jokes about it when she hosted Saturday Night Live in 2009.

Here's an example so you know what to look out for:

Source: Mother Jones

7. "Travelling relative gets into trouble" scam email

You'd think you could trust an email from a family member, but...depending on the subject matter, you should be careful.

This particular scam involves imposters posing as your close family member or friend and claiming to be in financial trouble. Usually, they say they've been travelling and have either lost their wallet or otherwise run into trouble and need emergency funds sent ASAP.

In fact, these are sometimes called Grandparent Scams because they target grandparents or elderly people who are likely to react to an emotional message from a loved one. Sometimes the scammers will even call their victims, posing as a friend or relative in an emergency situation.

8. Package and mail delivery scams

Especially during the recent years of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, we've all become pretty dependent on package delivery. So when we receive an email that says you've missed a delivery, we're going to pay attention.

However, scammers are now sending fraudulent emails just like this. They say that you've missed a delivery so now you have to pay to get it back, and include a phishing link cleverly disguised as a way to track your order.

The information you enter into the form you encounter through these links is instead used to access your personal financial information, among other things.

Here's an example from 2021:

When you clicked through the link, the scammers had made a pretty convincing fake UPS site to bring the scam home.

9. Scares involving viruses or compromised accounts

If you get an email with text similar to the following message, try not to panic.

"I have hacked your device."

"Your account has been locked."

"Your account has been compromised."

"Your account is being used by another person."

"Your information has been compromised."

The composers of the email may depict themselves as someone who's infected your device with a Trojan-type virus that gives them remote access. They may say they've noticed you accessing pornogrophy or some other scandalous online content and that they'll release evidence of this activity if you don't send them money.

Or, they may simply say that they've gained access to your device and your accounts, pressuring you to pay them to restore your privacy.

Whatever they say, it's more than likely very untrue. Chances are good that these are people trying to either get payment from you or find and use your personal information for their own gain.

But if something like this scares you, it may be time to get a reliable VPN. These Virtual Private Networks encrypt your data so it makes it almost impossible for hackers or even your ISP to track your internet activity.

Want one of the best VPNs in Canada? Check out ExpressVPN:

ExpressVPN is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service that protects your personal data with end-to-end encryption, giving you control over your own online privacy and security. You'll also have the ability to get around geoblocking of certain websites and services, whether it's American Netflix, Hulu, or other content we can't normally access in Canada.

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10. Contest winner online scams

Last year, the Federal Trade Commission in the U.S. received nearly 150,000 reports of fraud that involved prizes, sweepstakes, lotteries, and the like.

Scams like these will involve an email or perhaps an online popup message excitedly informing the recipient that they've won a big prize of some sort. But once you've clicked on the link or popup, you'll notice that they aren't asking you to report to them and find out how to collect your winnings.

Instead, they'll usually instruct you to do one of 2 things. They'll ask for a whole bunch of personal information, which will later be used to access your accounts, funds, etc. Or they'll want you to pay a processing fee, taxes, insurance, or something similar, before your prize can be sent.

Another form of this same scam can take the form of a surprising inheritance from an obscure relative. You'll receive an email discussing valuable property or a large sum of money that was suddenly left to you after the death of a relative you've never heard of.

Emails like this can be surprisingly convincing. They often include:

personal information about you and your family,

the name of a legitimate law firm, or

official-looking documentation.

But they'll almost always mention a small balance that needs to be cleared up before your newfound wealth can be accessed.

Source: WikiHow

11. Dating and romance scammers

Unfortunately, there are several types of romance-related scams happening in Canada these days. Especially during the lockdowns and stay-at-home times we've gone through with COVID-19, many Canadians were forming and maintaining relationships online as a safer alternative.

And scammers have been taking advantage of this.

Fake dating profiles on dating apps and sites are popping up all the time, and these criminals are very talented, sweet-talking their victims into believing they've formed a caring, stable relationship.

But this is far from the truth.

Here are a few examples of how these scammers manipulate in order to gain access to their victim's finances:

an emergency situation occurs and they need financial help ASAP,

a family member (usually a child or a parent) is in trouble and they don't have the funds they need to help out,

an odd circumstance occurs and they ask you to receive money from them somehow,

they join or start a new business and want you to invest with them,

a recent cryptocurrency investment takes off and they encourage you to invest too, or

they use intimate photos of you as blackmail and demand large sums of money before they'll destroy the photos.

Aside from these situations where the fraudulent romantic partner is trying to get money, there are situations where these online predators groom their victims so they can force them into the sex trades.

Source: ScamWatch

12. Calls, text, or emails from CRA

This is another common scam that many Canadians have encountered.

You'll get an email, text, or maybe even a phone call from a source claiming to be the CRA, saying one of 2 things:

you owe money in taxes and have to pay up ASAP, or

you've got a refund coming to you.

If your message says you owe money, they'll insist that you pay up immediately, using Bitcoin, prepaid cards, or something similar. This way, they don't even have to use your personal information or hack into any accounts because you're straight up giving them the money.

Plus, you'll be threatened to not speak to anyone about the situation. If you were unsure about whether or not the message was legitimate, this is a dead giveaway.

On the other hand, if they tell you there's a tax refund owed to you, they'll ask for personal details and/or send you a link for instructions on how to claim it.

13. Beware of fake charities

Charity-related scams hurt everyone, really.

Genuine charities miss out on much-needed help, victims are robbed of money, safety, and security, and the general public develops a sense of distrust for charities and non-profits. Which, in turn, affects the genuine charities again.

Sometimes referred to as donation solicitation scams, these situations take many forms, like:

disaster relief funds set up after a recent natural disaster or terrorist attack,

an organization that you previously worked with or donated to, or

an individual claiming to work with an organization supporting disability/medical issue awareness, endangered animals, police/firefighter fundraising, etc.

And there are a variety of methods these scammers take to advertise and/or contact you with their request for donations:

fake social media accounts and/or pages,

crowdfunding efforts,

emails, texts, phone calls, etc. providing a suspicious link, or

flyers, posters, or other advertising materials.

You'll notice that fraudulent charities tend to pop up around the Christmas holidays, which is a time that people often donate anyway.

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5 too-good-to-be-true offers and online scams

Fraudsters take advantage of our desire to find good deals and the excitement we feel when we get something special for cheap.

But - you've heard it before but it bears repeating - if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

14. Unbelievable, extremely good deals

Most of us look for the lowest price on the items we buy, especially if they're generally more expensive items. Jewelry, technology, and higher-priced items do go on sale but there's still a general range that even sale prices fall into. We don't expect to pay anything less than this range.

But scammers will list these usually-pricey items for unbelievable prices, trying to lure us in with shock value.

Here are a few examples of where you might come across these scams and how they might look:

social media ads for huge sales, clearout prices, etc.,

website popups with ads for big-ticket items at low cost,

emails or texts with shopping links for usually high-priced items at low prices, or

Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, or other legitimate forums listing brand new items at bargain prices.

We mentioned online shopping scams above, but these are a bit different. Rather than receiving damaged or knockoff items, in these cases you likely won't receive the product at all.

Instead, by clicking on the ad, link, or popup, you'll be asked for payment information and/or personal information the scammers can use to defraud you.

Source: Verified.org

15. Quick and miraculous weight loss suggestions

Body image issues are far too common among Canadians (including teens) and fraudsters will prey on this perceived weakness.

They'll create social media pages and ads, send emails and texts, and otherwise advertise these miracle cures for weight loss to draw us in. These phoney products can take many forms, including these:

diet pills,

weight loss programs,

"fat-busting" products and devices, or

celebrity-endorsed products or programs for weight loss.

Remember, miracle cures don't actually exist.

16. Job offers with companies that don't exist

We all have dream jobs, but it's unlikely that the perfect job offer from the perfect employer will suddenly appear out of nowhere...right?

Yes, scams of this sort do occur, and far too often.

You might be offered a fantastic work-from-home position that includes providing you with a large sum of money to use on business plans, computer equipment, startup materials, etc. It's possible you'll even be sent a cheque or other form of signing bonus just for getting started.

But once you deposit these funds, you'll find the cheque is fraudulent.

In other cases, scams take the form of very real-looking recruitment ads. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has identified car-wrapping and mystery shopper jobs in particular as being common examples of fraud in our country.

These situations involve an ad posted on a legitimate employment opportunity website, but once the applicant is given the job, they're asked to deposit a cheque into their personal bank account and transfer funds from that account to cover various supplies, make purchases, etc.

As you might guess, this gives criminals the access they need to drain your bank accounts and steal your personal identification information.

Source: Art+Logic

17. Cryptocurrency scams and security issues

Cryptocurrency scams are some of the most common types of scams occurring in North America. In fact, the CAFC reports that in 2021, the amount of reported losses due to crypto fraud was about $75 million.

The average person loses about $1,500 to this type of fraud.

The RCMP website details what these scams might look like:

a phone call or email from a supposed government official requesting immediate payment of a fee via cryptocurrency,

an online relationship that takes a sudden turn when the other party demands money in the form of cryptocurrency in order to help you solve a problem, or

receiving notice that you're a prize winner, but it can only be claimed after paying fees via cryptocurrency.

Whatever the method, these scammers are ultimately looking for ways to access your digital wallet, security codes, and other personal information.

18. Real estate scams

Situations involving real estate scams can involve either rental units or properties for sale on the housing market.

Rental scams

With rentals, you might come across an ad or listing for a gorgeous, surprisingly low-priced property that's ready for new tenants. There are often pictures of a bright, clean, newly-renovated space with all kinds of amenities, usually located in a desirable area.

But when you send a message and ask for more details or to view the property, the owner's response can be cryptic and/or unusual. They might say that they can't arrange a viewing until you provide a deposit, or they're out of town at the moment and require financial commitment to ensure nobody else takes the space before they return and can show it to you.

Either way, these types of responses are serious red flags.

House scams

Houses and owned properties are a little bit different. A fraudster might steal the title to your home and proceed to apply for a mortgage against it or even list it on the market for sale.

Or, if you're facing hard times and having difficulty making the mortgage payments, you might be tricked by someone offering to get you a loan to help with your payments if you'll just transfer your property into their name.

But, of course, once the property is in their name, they can sell it out from underneath you.

Source: VOCM

7 tips to avoid online scams

As some of the statistics we mentioned above indicate, people fall for scams all the time. People of all ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds are all susceptible to these crimes.

But as unfortunate as these cases are, we can learn from them and take steps to protect ourselves from falling victim to similar schemes.

1. Make sure the website is secure

First, you should check whether the site you're on is secure so you're assured your information is kept private. To determine this, there are a few things you can look for in the address bar:

To the left of the URL, there should be a tiny icon of a padlock in the locked position.

There might be a tiny i-shaped information symbol - this indicates that the site isn't secure.

If you see a small red triangle with an exclamation mark in its centre, this is a warning that the site is "dangerous."

2. Be careful with online security

There are many steps you can take to make sure you're staying safe online, but here are a few of the most important ones:

When using public WiFi networks, make sure they're secure.

Use secure passwords, don't use the same password for multiple sites, and update them regularly.

Install antivirus software.

Back up your data on a regular basis.

Double check all links to verify authenticity before clicking.

Use a VPN for extra security.

For social media, you'll want to take similar steps to ensure privacy, plus a few extra things. Use unique passwords and update them often, tweak your settings so only close friends and family can see your activity, and log off when you're finished browsing.

If you're worried that your security has been breached, there are steps to take that we'll discuss below. In particular, if you're worried that your financial information has been compromised, you can always sign up for credit reports where you can check for fraudulent activity.

If you want to keep an eye on your credit information, a credit monitoring service may be a good tool for you. For example, MogoAccount offers free monthly credit score monitoring.

Learn more here:

MogoAccount gives you quick and easy access to your credit score through the Mogo app. Mogo obtains the information from Equifax, 1 of Canada's 2 major credit bureaus. You'll also get access to tips that will help you improve your credit score, and daily money tips that you can use to build better financial habits.

Tips to help you improve your credit score

Free identity fraud monitoring

Soft credit check doesn't impact your credit score

Only includes your Equifax credit score

Credit monitoring is only free for 90 days

Doesn't include any credit report information

3. Look out for strangely personal questions

If an email is from a name you don't know, a company you don't recognize, or otherwise looks odd in your inbox, don't bother to open it. If you do open it, do not click on any links unless you've determined that the sender is someone you know.

Any questions involving strange questions involving your SIN, your mother's maiden name, or any such details should be ignored and the email deleted.

The same goes for website popups, unusual texts, surprise messages on social media, and any other form of communication. Do not click on unfamiliar links or answer personal questions.

Source: Zapier

4. Remember how legitimate companies and individuals operate

It's well known that the CRA and other legitimate government agencies won't send text messages, and they likely won't send emails either. If they do want to contact you, they'll send mail through Canada Post or perhaps give you a phone call.

But even if they do call, they won't do these things:

ask for credit card numbers,

use any threatening or aggressive language,

request immediate payment via e-transfer, Bitcoin, gift cards, or prepaid cards,

ask for your passport, health card, or driver's license information.

5. Obvious spelling and grammar mistakes

To determine a website's authenticity, carefully examine how the company name is spelled and punctuated in the URL. If you're looking at Amaz0n.ca instead of Amazon.ca, or maybe Disney-plus.com instead of Disneyplus.com, the site is obviously a phoney.

When looking at products and services for sale on various platforms, check the spelling and grammar for obvious errors. If the language in the ad is disjointed, garbled, or at all confusing, you should be skeptical.

6. Grainy or unclear images

Similar to checking a site or seller's spelling and grammar, you should also study the quality of the photos or artwork. If the photos and images are fuzzy, grainy, or at all unclear, you should question their authenticity.

But photoshop is a common software tool scammers use to disguise the fact that their products are fake, so the images may look completely clear. So if you have other reasons to suspect foul play, you can use Google's reverse image search to see if they came from another site.

Another thing to look out for is bad photoshop. Often, with fake products, fraudulent companies will (badly) photoshop their item onto stock photos, and video assets made by the company may include heavy usage of stock videos, graphics, and captions.

Source: Amazon

7. Avoid clicking links directly in an email

Phishing has been a popular fraudster tactic for several years now, but people still fall victim to the lure of the links. Sure, sometimes it's an accident, but sometimes curiosity gets the better of us.

No matter how legit the email may seem, it's always best practice to manually make your way to the website the way you usually do - NOT by clicking the links in the email. By clicking, you make yourself vulnerable, creating pathways for criminals to access your private information and accounts.

What to do if you were a target of an online scam

Don't panic, this isn't the first time it's happened (and it won't be the last).

If you do suspect that you're the victim of a scam artist, there are a few steps you can take to report and hopefully fix the situation.

Step 1: Gather all the info you have

First, you'll want to list all the information you think is relevant. This can include:

the name of the person, business, or organization that contacted you,

the method they used to contact you,

a copy of the original email or text, or the number the call originated from if they contacted you by phone,

the exact address and name of the website in question, plus any Google search terms you used to find it, and

documentation like receipts, chatroom or newsgroup messages, faxes, phone bills, printed emails, etc.

The more information you can collect to present, the better.

Step 2: Report the online scam

Report the scam to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre as well as your local law enforcement organization. They'll take your information and use it for the following purposes:

investigate and hopefully prosecute the criminals,

spot trends that can help prevent similar occurrences,

educate the public about how and what to look for, and

compile the data for statistical purposes.

You should contact the authorities in a timely manner, especially if you've lost money to this scam.

Step 3: Let your bank know and reissue any cards you used

If you entered your credit card, banking, or other financial institution information, you'll need to let the bank/issuer know ASAP. You'll want to get a new credit card and/or switch bank accounts so you'll have new numbers that no one else has access to.

Also, if you sent money via a transfer service or online payment provider, you should contact them and let them know about the fraudulent activity taking place through their service.

Step 4: Let the credit bureaus know

If you suspect the fraudster may try to steal your identity, you can contact both credit bureaus (TransUnion and Equifax) and ask them to put flags on your account. Once a fraud alert is added to your account, a note is added to your file that warns companies that your personal information may have been compromised.

This ensures that any accounts being opened in your name will face extra scrutiny, making it more difficult for fraudsters to succeed.

You can also request to be sent regular credit reports so you can keep an eye out for suspicious activity - in fact, you could take advantage of this service even if you haven't been scammed. This way, you can be assured of notification in case anything ever does go wrong.

Both credit bureaus also offer credit monitoring straight from the source. If you're going through a particularly vulnerable situation, you may want to consider paying a small fee for a month to keep a close eye on things.

You can learn more about TransUnion's credit monitoring service here, as an example:

From one of Canada's official credit bureaus comes TransUnion Credit Monitoring, a subscription service that provides unlimited access to your credit score, report, and many other valuable features.

Credit information straight from the source

Personalised debt and credit analysis

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Receive email alerts

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Have you encountered online scams before?

Online scams aren't going to disappear anytime soon. It's important that you take steps to protect yourself so you can surf the internet safely. It's also important to immediately investigate and report to the authorities any time you think you've been scammed.

What about you? What kind of precautions do you take to protect yourself online?

Or maybe you've been the unfortunate victim of a scam artist - how did this affect you? How have your habits changed since then?

We'd love to hear what you have to say. Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

FAQ

What are the most common online scams?

Cryptocurrency scams are the most common form of fraud occurring in Canada. These scams can take various forms, but always involve the victim's online currency being stolen or compromised. Scams involving online shopping also occur quite frequently. Sometimes the situation involves fake websites or less-than-honest 3rd party sellers, and other times there might be an overabundance of fake reviews that jack up the product rating.

How can you tell if someone is scamming you online?

It depends on the situation, but identifying an online scammer can be tricky. If you receive unsolicited text, emails, or other communication that contains a link, the sender is likely trying to scam you. 3rd party sellers often try scamming their online shoppers too, so watch out for listings with grammar mistakes, spelling errors, and fuzzy images.

Are there any online dating scams?

Unfortunately, yes, there are several different types of romance-related scams that occur in Canada. Predators try things like creating fake online dating profiles, creating insincere romantic relationships, and then asking for large sums of money. Or they might threaten the victim by saying they'll release intimate photos if they don't receive a big payment.

What are online survey scams?

Online survey scams happen when you participate in a poll or survey that you received through an unsolicited email, text, or direct message on social media. These questionnaires also ask for your credit card info or other personal details that provide fraudsters with the means they need to hack your accounts and take your money.

Where do I report online scams?

You should report any online scams you encounter to your local law enforcement department as well as to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Reporting these crimes allows these agencies to investigate and make the scammers pay for their crimes. It also allows them to warn the public to be on the lookout for similar situations.

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18 Common Online Scams In Canada - And How Not To Be The Next Victim | moneyGenius

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Online scams are more common than you may realize. But which ones are the most common and how do you avoid becoming a victim? We discuss these questions and more in our deep dive into internet scams.

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How To Avoid Identity Theft In Canada | moneyGenius

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How To Avoid Identity Theft In Canada | moneyGenius

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Id entity theft is when personal information, such as names, social insurance numbers (SINs), or credit card details are unlawfully acquired to commit fraud or other crimes. These may include opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or claiming tax returns.

To avoid identity theft in Canada, safeguard your personal information - avoid giving out sensitive information online or over the phone unless you're certain of the recipient's legitimacy and regularly monitor your financial statements for any suspicious activity.

Key Takeaways

Identity theft is the illicit acquisition and misuse of an individual's personal information, such as social insurance numbers or credit card details, for fraudulent purposes.

You can prevent identity theft by safeguarding personal information, using strong passwords, staying vigilant against scams, and regularly monitoring financial statements.

If you suspect that your identity has been stolen, immediately notify your bank, the local police, and the CRA.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone illicitly obtains and uses your personal information - like social insurance numbers, addresses, or credit card details - to engage in fraudulent activities.

Here are some examples of what someone could do with your stolen identity:

Open unauthorized bank accounts in your name

Apply for loans or mortgages

Claim tax refunds

How do perpetrators get your information? They might access your information through data breaches, hacking insecure websites, or phishing scams.

Common phishing scams in Canada include fraudulent emails posing as legitimate financial institutions or government agencies, as well as contests that request personal information or prompt recipients to click malicious links.

Ways to protect yourself from identity theft

While being targeted for identity theft isn't always in your control, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Always verify caller legitimacy

Be cautious when providing personal information like your SIN or date of birth over the phone. Verify the caller's legitimacy and ensure you're speaking with a trusted source before disclosing sensitive details.

Beware of email requests

Legitimate organizations like the Canada Revenue Agency and financial institutions do not typically request sensitive information via email.

Watch for phishing attempts disguised as official correspondence and refrain from responding to unsolicited emails requesting personal data. This includes anything posed as tax obligations or lottery/sweepstakes winnings.

Keep your login information secure

Safeguard your access codes, user IDs, passwords, and PINs with vigilance. Regularly update your login credentials for online banking and all other sites, employing strong, unique passwords for added security.

Pro tip: Use a password manager like LastPass or 1Password to generate secure passwords and keep them safe.

Monitor your bank accounts and credit reports

Make it a habit to monitor your financial statements and credit reports for any suspicious activity. Report unauthorized transactions immediately to your bank or credit card issuer.

You can use a tool like Equifax Complete Premier to easily keep track of your credit score and report.

moneyGenius Recommends: Scotiabank MomentumPLUS Savings Account

What to do if you're a victim of identity theft

If you believe that your identity has been stolen, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recommends taking the following actions immediately:

Notify your bank and the local police right away

Contact the CRA at 1-800-959-8281

Report the incident to Equifax or TransUnion, which are the two biggest consumer credit bureaus in Canada

Call 1-800-622-6232 to learn where and how you can replace your identity cards/numbers, including your health card, driver's license, and SIN

How do you protect yourself from identity theft?

Identity theft is very serious and can lead to life-long consequences for victims.

What steps do you take to protect yourself from identity theft? Let us know in the comments below.

FAQ

How can I avoid becoming a victim of identity theft?

You can avoid identity theft by safeguarding your personal information, monitoring financial statements regularly, using strong passwords, and staying vigilant against phishing scams and fraudulent activities.

How do I report identity theft in Canada?

If you are suspicious of identity theft, immediately report it to your local police and your bank by calling them. Following that, call the CRA at 1-800-959-8281 and report the incident to Equifax or TransUnion, the two biggest consumer credit bureaus in Canada.

Does my bank offer any identity theft protection?

Some banks and accounts do offer this. For instance, the BMO Performance Plan provides OnGuard for free, a fraud prevention service that tracks and monitors your digital and financial activity. It notifies clients of any suspicious activity.

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How To Avoid Identity Theft In Canada | moneyGenius

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Protect yourself from identity theft in Canada by securing personal data and refraining from sharing sensitive info online or over the phone unless verifying legitimacy.

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What Is An ATM Skimmer And How Do You Check For One? | moneyGenius

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What Is An ATM Skimmer And How Do You Check For One? | moneyGenius

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An ATM skimmer is a card reader installed by thieves that can read your credit card and take your credit or debit card information. The information is used to conduct fraud, but a simple check before inserting your card into an ATM or other payment device should help prevent it.

This article will go over how to spot an ATM skimmer and how to protect yourself from fraud.

Key Takeaways

ATM skimmers are designed to steal your debit and credit card information when you insert your card into an ATM.

ATM skimmers can be spotted if the ATM looks tampered with or if it's loosely installed.

Avoid ATM skimmers by checking for tampering, applying mild force to the card slot, using tap, and only using trusted ATMs.

What is an ATM skimmer?

A credit card skimmer is a device commonly attached to an ATM, gas pump, or any other place where you may insert your card to make a payment or withdraw money. These devices record your card information, including your credit card number.

Normally, these devices go on top of the actual device where you insert your card and are designed to look the same as the normal place you'd insert your card.

More elaborate skimmers can go on top of payment terminals at stores, which can record your PIN. Your PIN can also be recorded with small hidden cameras or thermal cameras that sense the "warmed up" buttons on a PIN pad.

How to spot an ATM skimmer

Skimmers may blend in very well with the surrounding ATMs. Fraudsters have designed them to mimic the look from a distance and catch those who aren't careful.

Before inserting your card into an ATM, check for any malformations or evidence of tampering around the area. If anything appears to be loose, it may be because someone has added a skimmer on top of the insertion area. Check your ATM with other ATMs at the branch or in the area. If yours looks different, use a different ATM.

moneyGenius Recommends: Scotiabank MomentumPLUS Savings Account

How to avoid ATM skimmers

Here are some tips to avoid ATM skimmers (or card skimmers in general):

Always check carefully for any weird signs of tampering before inserting your credit card into any machine.

Try to stick to trusted banks' ATMs when possible.

If there is a contactless payment (tap) option, use that instead.

If a machine looks to have been tampered with, try jiggling the suspected skimmer - if it feels loose or comes off, it may be a skimmer.

Protect your PIN from cameras by blocking it as you type it in and wipe the keypad immediately after with your fingers to avoid any thermal cameras.

When in doubt, don't use the machine and try a different one.

Protecting yourself from an ATM skimmer

We hope this guide was helpful in terms of avoiding getting hit by a common scam. Even if you're extra-vigilant, fraud can still happen. As a reminder, if you ever suspect that there's fraud afoot, be sure to contact your bank immediately.

Have any stories of ATM skimmers that you'd like to share? Our readers would definitely benefit from your advice, so be sure to drop it in the comments below.

FAQ

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What Is An ATM Skimmer And How Do You Check For One? | moneyGenius

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An ATM skimmer steals your credit card data and can be installed by thieves in an ATM card slot. Here's a guide to identify one and how to avoid this common scam.

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Facebook Account Cloning & What Can You do about It?

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Facebook Account Cloning & What Can You do about It?

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What is Facebook Account Cloning & What Can You do about It?

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Keeping yourself – and your friends – safe from Facebook account cloning scams is simple. This is everything you need to know to protect yourself.

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Facebook “IS THIS YOU?” Video Scam Steals Your Login Info - Techlicious

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Facebook “IS THIS YOU?” Video Scam Steals Your Login Info - Techlicious

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A Facebook scam that has been circulating for years seems to be making a comeback. And if you fall for it, you'll have your Facebook login info stolen by the scammers, who can then hack your account and use it for a variety of nefarious purposes.

The scam works by tricking Facebook users into clicking a link to a video. The video will often have some variation of "Is this you?" or "Did you make this video?" in the description to pique your interest, and will likely come from one of your friends (who already fell for this scam and had their credentials stolen).

If you click on the link, you'll be taken to a fake Facebook login page with a message about confirming your information before you can access the video. It is pretty obvious the page is fake if you notice the URL at the top. But if you're not paying attention and you enter your info here, you've just given the scammers what they need to take over your account.

As a final insult, you won't be taken to the video (which never existed in the first place), but dumped into a spammy affiliate ad network for NSFW games, sketchy app downloads and survey scams. I've seen a few valid apps, too, such as Norton Secure VPN on Google Play, but these companies have no part in the scam (after I notified Symantec, Norton's parent company, about the app's inclusion, a spokesperson told me " Upon learning of this issue, we worked with our mobile advertising partner to quickly identify and blacklist the bad actor responsible for this threat. We are also working to identify consumers who may have been impacted to help them with any residual effects. ")

The best course of action if you get one of these video links from a friend is to not click it and notify your friend by phone or email, if possible, that their account may have been compromised. It's also possible the video was sent from a friend's cloned Facebook account that a scammer used to friend you in the past.

If you made the mistake of entering your credentials on that fake login page, you should immediately change your Facebook password before the scammers have a chance to get in. This would also be an excellent time to consider setting up Two-factor authentication for Facebook so you won't lose access to your account if you fall for another phishing scam in the future.

And if the scammers have already taken control of your Facebook account, you'll need to go through Facebook's account recovery process to regain access.

Author's note 5/25/2021: A number of comments have come in indicating that their accounts were compromised even though they didn't not attempt to log in. I've researched this issue quite a bit and, despite nearly two years having passed since I first wrote this story, I still haven't seen any credible evidence that malware or other hacks are being exploited to steal user credentials through this scam. Everything I've read from security research sources indicates that this is a pure phishing scam. And given how much press this has received, I'm sure it is also something that Facebook has researched and would have patched if it were a security hole on their end.

So how come all the reports of exploits where people didn't log in? Here's what I think may be happening:

1) People did log in, but it's such a natural action for them that they don't even remember that they did.

2) Your account was already compromised, either through a previous phishing attempt or because you have weak password security that allowed an attacker to access your account through a data breach from another source.

3) These requests are coming from cloned accounts

4) You didn't log in, but did click on a malware download (e.g., fake Flash update to view video) that compromised your system.

For more insight on what is happening, go to your Facebook Settings > Security and Login to see where and when you have been logged into your Facebook account.

If I uncover any new information about malware associated with this scam, I will update the article.

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Facebook "IS THIS YOU?" Video Scam Steals Your Login Info

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Don't fall for this scam that steals your login info. Here's how to spot it before you click and what to do if you've already been fooled into logging in.

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How to stay protected from smishing scams

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How to stay protected from smishing scams

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You're putting yourself at risk if you aren't up-to-date on the biggest scamming schemes. There are a lot of widespread cons that many people don't know about. Tap or click here for seven new scams to watch out for.

Take smishing, for example. While it isn't all that new, it's still not the most well-known term. But it's a spreading issue that threatens anyone who owns a smartphone, so it's best to find out what it is now.

If you're scratching your head and wondering what the heck it means, don't worry. We'll explain it in this easy guide to smishing. You'll learn what it is, how to spot it and a few defense strategies.

Smishing steals millions from people like you

It may be a silly name, but it reflects a serious issue. In 2020, cons that started as scam texts tricked Americans out of $86 million, according to AARP. Smishing scams target everyone - and they're easy to fall for since cybercriminals work hard to impersonate reputable brands and websites.

The FBI had to step in and sound the alarm because it was such a significant threat.

Think twice before clicking links in text messages! #Smishing is a common, easy way for #cybercriminals to steal money from unsuspecting targets. If you think you're a victim of a smishing scam, visit https://t.co/MWss57C5gI to file a report with the #FBI. https://t.co/0bVeEj7lpK

- FBI (@FBI) September 1, 2021

One scary threat you may come into contact with is Medusa malware. It spreads through text messages with malicious links. Click on one and malware will infect your device. This allows crooks to steal data and even take over your phone. Tap or click here to protect your devices from this malware as well as other threats.

Here's how smishing works

Smishing starts with a text message designed to put you on edge. You'll see a message on your phone with language that makes you feel like your important accounts are in peril. For example, a message from a new number may say your debit card has been suspended.

Maybe the message warns you of abnormal activity, claiming someone tried to log into your bank from a new device. It might even say you added a new person to receive payments from your bank account. The content may vary, but these texts try to trick you into clicking a link.

Here's an example of one such text, courtesy of Proofpoint.com:

RELATED: How to protect your mobile device from smishing

Once you click the link, you're sent to a website wherein scammers try to steal your data. For example, if they pretend to be from your bank and you enter your username and password, they could drain your bank account dry. Even worse, they could steal your entire identity.

You never want that to happen. They can commit crimes in your name, slandering your reputation and ensuring you can't get another job. Tap or click here for three surefire signs someone stole your identity.

Bad guys love to impersonate Amazon

Scammers often pretend to be from Amazon. One out of every three people who reported business impersonators says the criminal pretended to be from Amazon. That's according to the FTC.

Apple is a close second. Criminals also pretend to be from popular banks like Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo and more. Scammers also send out fake messages from Netflix, AT&T, any other brand you may do business with ... and even postal services.

How to spot smishing scams before they trick you

These scams can be pretty easy to fall for. That's why you should watch out for a few red flags, like:

Numbers with unusual characters.

Links to strange website domains.

Website URLs with numbers.

Phone numbers that aren't formatted normally.

Here's one warning sign of a smishing scam. Does the text include a threat or warning of bad things that will happen if you don't click the link? Don't fall for it - that's almost a surefire sign of trickery.

On the flip side, be wary of rewards. Texts may promise you'll get a gift card, cash back or another incredible bonus if you click the link. That's a sign of manipulation, so don't let it trick you.

RELATED: How emotions make you easy prey for scammers

We recommend being skeptical of any random text with an embedded link. After all, people and companies usually only send links like this when you've reached out first. Say you're trying to verify an account or sent in an inquiry. Then they'll send you a link.

But texts with links usually don't pop up on your phone out of the blue. Thus, you should always look at these sudden texts with caution.

Take these steps to stop smishing scams altogether

Keeping your software and browsers updated is an excellent way to protect yourself from cybersecurity threats. Engineers working on Chrome, iOS, Android and Safari work hard to add new security features to each update. Updating regularly is an easy way to guard against smishing and other threats.

We also recommend taking a step back when you encounter a message that makes you feel emotional. Are you feeling fearful, angry or desperate? Don't act on impulse.

Instead, look up the alleged company or entity contacting you. For instance, if you get a text from FedEx saying you're in trouble, don't respond to the text with a link. Look up the official contact information from the website and check to see if the problem is real or just a fake situation designed by a scammer.

We also recommend using a good antivirus program on your phone and computer. Kim recommends our sponsor, TotalAV, which offers the best protection in the business. It's received the renowned VB100 award for detecting more than 99% of malware samples for the last three years.

TotalAV offers continuous protection from the latest threats. Plus, its AI-driven Web Shield browser extension blocks dangerous websites automatically, and its Junk Cleaner can help you quickly clear out your old files.

Right now, get an annual plan of TotalAV Internet Security for only $19 at ProtectWithKim.com. That's over 85% off the regular price.

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How to stay protected from smishing scams

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Ever get a strange text with a link? It could be a smishing scam. Here's how to recognize smishing attacks - and how to protect yourself.

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What Is Catfishing? 8 Signs to Recognize Catfishing Online

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What Is Catfishing? 8 Signs to Recognize Catfishing Online

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With the surge in social media and online dating over the last decade, catfishing has become more common than ever. I n 2020 alone, over 23,000 US citizens reported being a victim of catfishing. Moreover, the financial damage caused by catfishing is devastating. The 23,000 victims reported combined damage of more than $605,000,000.

But what is this dangerous practice of catfishing you've heard so much about exactly? Where can you get catfished? What are the signs you are being catfished? What should you do to prevent it if you have already become a victim? We will answer all these questions in this extensive article.

What is Catfishing?

Catfishing means pretending to be someone else to deceive someone into wanting a romantic relationship with the pretender. To this end, the catfisher generally uses made-up stories and fake photos to support their fake identity.

Some people catfish just because they feel they're getting very limited romantic attention. However, catfishers often have much more sinister motives. Many of them ask for money once they have gained the victim's trust, for example. Alternatively, they might attempt to force people to "pay up," for instance, by combining catfishing with other scams, such as sextortion, which frequently happens.

Now, you might rightfully ask yourself: why is it called catfishing? Some people think it came from the popular 2010 documentary Catfish, which discusses a young man being deceived by a woman with a fake Facebook profile. However, the documentary simply popularized the term - it didn't invent it.

The term originally comes from the early 1900s, when anglers used to ship catfish with codfish. Since the catfish is the natural enemy of the cod, it'd chase the fish around constantly, keeping it fresh, active, and better-tasting. Since digital catfishers also chase their victim, the term was adopted to describe them as well.

Why do People Catfish?

There are many different reasons people catfish. Some are more "innocent." For instance, some people catfish because they feel lonely or underappreciated in a society that doesn't find them attractive. Their goal often is merely to create an online persona to attract people they feel wouldn't be interested in them in real life.

Things get more severe when the end goal of catfishing is to harass or stalk victims. In some cases, catfishing can even lead to or be a part of even more severe forms of abuse.

Then there is the common financial incentive: many catfishers end up scamming their victims for money. They will often come up with excuses to ask for financial help. They might tell the victim they need money to go and see them. Or maybe a family member is ill, and they need some money to cover medical costs. You may feel you're helping them out by transferring (some) money, but they will likely keep coming up with more excuses to ask for financial aid.

Where Can I Get Catfished?

Catfishing mainly takes place on social media platforms and online dating sites or apps. Below, we discuss some of the most common "catfishing platforms" and what this scam looks like on these platforms.

Tinder catfishing

Tinder is one of the biggest online dating platforms and by far the biggest one in the US. Therefore, it won't come as a surprise that the "Tinder Catfish" is one of the most common species of catfish. It's best to learn how to manage your privacy on Tinder to prevent opportunistic catfishers.

Once the catfish has "matched with their victim," they will message them and try to gain their trust. This is when the catfishing cycle begins. Fortunately, Tinder has recently announced they will soon require ID verification for all users. This should make it much more difficult for catfishers to find their "catch."

Catfishing on Facebook

With about 86 million fake Facebook accounts and Facebook being the largest social medium in the world, it's hardly surprising that there is so much catfishing on Facebook.

Many of us have likely received a suspicious-looking friend request at one point or another. It's best to ignore and delete these. After all, according to the Better Business Bureau, 85% of catfishing scams start on Facebook. The launch of Facebook Dating (in 2019) is likely to have increased this percentage.

Facebook catfishing generally starts with sending a friend request to the victim. Sometimes the catfisher sends a direct message, hoping the victim will answer. Once the victim responds, the perpetrator will reel them in with sweet-talking and fake stories. There are quite a few other Facebook scams out there, so it's best to remain up to date and arm yourself.

Instagram catfishing

With a platform as visually orientated as Instagram and more than a billion users, Instagram catfishing can hardly be avoided completely. Catfishers can send their victim either a follow request or a direct message using Instagram Direct. The latter will appear as a message request and has to be approved by the victim.

Instagram is no stranger to profiles that (seemingly) belong to the rich, successful, and beautiful. Therefore, anyone can come into contact with someone that seems to be a little bit too good to be true and will eventually turn out to be a catfish. This is just one of many Instagram scams you should know about.

8 Signs You Are Being Catfished

Catfishers are generally excellent at tricking their victims. They rely on the emotions of a ffection and infatuation to cloud their victim's judgment. Nevertheless, there are usually a few clear warning signs you are being catfished. We will go over these red flags below and elaborate on each of the signs.

1. Avoiding (video) calls

Catfishers want to avoid situations where their true identity is exposed. Therefore, they'll never agree to a video chat or to meet up in person. Often, they won't even accept a regular call (without video). After all, even their voice could expose information they don't want you to know, such as them being a man instead of a woman or vice versa. Therefore, if someone you met online has constant excuses not to meet up or have a (video) call, this should be a definite red flag for catfishing.

2. No online presence (on other platforms)

A large part of our presence is online these days. Therefore, you can expect someone active on one social platform to also be active on others. This is even truer when we focus on a younger demographic, where catfishing is rampant.

Ask yourself: Why does that successful businessman you just met on Facebook not have a LinkedIn page to promote his company, or even to look for new partnerships and recruits? Why does that beautiful fitness model chatting you up on Tinder not have examples of her work on Instagram or her Facebook page?

If the person you just met has a very lacking online presence, ask yourself why. Especially when combined with other signs, this might just be a red flag.

3. Very few friends or followers

When someone approaching you online has very few friends on Facebook or followers on Instagram, this could be a red flag for catfishing. Most people use social media to connect and keep in touch with people online. Supposedly, part of this process is having a decent online circle to communicate or keep in touch with.

Of course, this doesn't always mean you're dealing with a catfisher. If a profile doesn't have this social circle, this could be because they're new on the platform or simply prefer not to have too many contacts. It could also be a sign that keeping in touch with family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances is not the primary goal of their social media use. Even so, be very cautious when a profile has very few friends or followers.

4. A very recently created profile

If a social media profile was very recently created, this could be a red flag. This is especially something to look out for if a profile does have a decent number of friends or followers, but something still seems "fishy."

A recently created profile could just mean someone is genuinely new to a social medium. But it could also mean they frequently create fake profiles to find new victims to catfish. After all, once a profile is flagged or reported on a social medium, it's often removed. As such, catfish often create many fake profiles, either one after another or simultaneously.

5. "Professional" pictures

Another huge giveaway that something's off is if your romantic interest only has professional-looking pictures on their profile. Most people on social media - celebrities and influencers excluded - mainly upload pictures taken by family and friends and some selfies.

If you encounter a profile full of professional-looking pictures, this might be either a sign they're using someone else's photos (more on this later), or they went through great effort to make themselves look better than they really are. In both instances, it's wise to ask yourself why.

Even if they are their real photos, it's probable someone's trying to lure you in with excessively flattering pictures. Of course, plenty of (aspiring) models promote themselves on social media, but how many of those approach random strangers online out of romantic interest?

6. Stolen pictures

Needless to say, the use of stolen pictures online is an even more serious sign of malicious intent than using stock, professional photos. If someone is using stolen pictures, it's very likely they are out to scam you. After all, scamming people on social media is one of the most common reasons for creating fake accounts.

Fortunately, it's often quite easy to find out whether someone is using stolen pictures on social media. You can simply use Google reverse image search to find similar pictures like the one used by your (potential) catfisher and find out where they come from. To do this, simply go to Google Images and click on the little camera icon to upload a picture or paste a picture's URL and start your search.

7. Asking for money

This is one of the most obvious signs you're dealing with a catfish. After all, a common reason for catfishing people is to come up with excuses to ask them for money down the line. Ask yourself: How likely is it that you would ask someone you just met online for money, especially if you're hoping to have a relationship with them?

8. Asking for explicit pictures or videos

Asking for explicit pictures or videos can be a huge red flag. This could mean the asker is trying to combine catfishing with another dangerous form of cybercrime: sextortion. In this scenario, catfishing is actually used to obtain sensitive images of you, which will later be used as leverage to extort you into providing more images or paying the "sextorter."

Bonus tip: Social catfish

There's a comprehensive online tool that can help you find out whether you're being catfished: Social Catfish. This tool allows you to investigate people by filling out their name and country, email address, phone number, social media username, address, or by uploading their image. Alternatively, you can do a more extensive search by filling out more details about the person.

The one downside with their service, however, is that some might consider it quite pricey. It's around $6 for a five-day trial and about $27 for a monthly subscription. Then there is also the possibility of hiring a " Search Specialist " for a comparatively hefty fee of $297.

Despite the priciness, it's good to know that such services exist for people who need them. Moreover, Social Catfish's search results are generally very extensive. You get multiple profiles to choose from after doing a search. Perhaps most importantly, the information you get while clicking on a profile is very comprehensive: everything from their address history and social media profiles to past relationships and criminal records you'll be able to find.

What (Not) to Do When You've Been Catfished

We obviously hope that by studying and recognizing the above catfishing signals, you will stay safe online. However, anyone can get unlucky or have a momentary lapse of judgment. Therefore, we offer you some steps to go through if you're a catfishing victim below. These steps will not undo your experience, but hopefully they will mitigate some of the damage and help others stay safe(r) online.

1. Don't give the catfish any money. If you gave them money in the past, stop doing so.

2. If you have given them money, call or contact your local police department so they can start an investigation. In some cases, people got their money back this way. After all, obtaining money from victims this way is a form of cyber fraud. Use this link to find out how to report cybercrime if you live in Europe (the UK included). If you live in the US you should file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

3. Block the catfish from your social media accounts and stop contacting them.

4. Report the catfish on the website or platform where you met them.

5. If the catfish scammed you, it can't hurt to help others stay safe by reporting it to a scam tracker, such as the one operated by the Better Business Bureau.

For more cyber safety tips, read our guide to avoiding online scams.

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What is Catfishing? 8 Signs You're Being Catfished Online

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Learn what is catfishing and how you can recognize it to keep yourself safe online on different web and social media platforms.

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What should I do if someone sends me a sext?

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What should I do if someone sends me a sext?

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Help! Someone shared a photo of me without my consent!

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Help! Someone shared a photo of me without my consent!

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These Are The Biggest Scams of the Year

Kelly Reynolds was relaxing at home when she received a text from her bank asking if she had tried to send money via Zelle. Alarmed, Kelly responded "no" - within seconds, her phone rang, and the caller ID showed "Wells Fargo Fraud Protection."

The agent instructed Kelly to transfer her savings to a new, secure account - but Kelly was skeptical. She quickly did an online search to verify the agent's name and phone number. When everything checked out, Kelly hit "send" for her transfer - and lost her life savings to a scam [*].

According to the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) latest data [*]:

Victims lost over $6 billion to cybercriminals in the first nine months of 2023 alone.

But what's even more surprising is that Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zs were more likely than seniors to report losing money to fraud [*].

Suffering financial loss from fraud, scams, and identity theft is devastating. The ugly truth is that fraudsters are always looking for new ways to scam you. To stay safe, you need to keep up to date with the latest scams going around - and learn how to avoid them.

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The 12 Latest Scams You Need To Know

The latest types of scams can happen via phone calls, text messages, emails, social media, or even in person. Learn to recognize the warning signs so that you can keep yourself and your family safe from fraudsters.

1. The "pig butchering" scam (fake crypto investments)

This year, cybercriminals started playing the long game. In "pig butchering" scams, what begins as a chance online encounter or wrong number text slowly turns into a romance scam.

The fraudster "fattens the pig" by building trust over time, eventually luring the target into a financial trap - the "butchering" phase, during which the victim loses everything.

An example of a "random" text that starts the pig butchering scam. Source: Aura

Pig butchering scams are often connected to cryptocurrency, though scammers can use any investment scheme.
How the scam works:

Scammers reach out via text, social media, or dating websites and start to build a relationship (whether friendly or romantic).

Eventually, the scammer starts talking about how much money they've earned on their "secret" or "exclusive" cryptocurrency investments.

They convince their target to try a small investment on their "special" app or platform (which is really just a bogus website that steals the victim's money).

The scammer makes it look like the investment was successful, and encourages the target to keep investing and earning.

Here's how to stay safe:
Be suspicious of any stranger on the internet who initiates a close personal relationship with you out of the blue. Cut off all contact if someone starts pressuring you into making risky investments, such as via cryptocurrency - especially if they promise "guaranteed" returns.

2. Student loan forgiveness scams

Whenever a government relief program hits the headlines, scammers get to work. One of the most highly-publicized relief initiatives in the past year, to which scammers have flocked, has been President Biden's student loan forgiveness program.
How the scam works:

Scammers communicate via phone calls or emails. They use generic business names that sound trustworthy, or they pose as federal loan servicers and set up a phony website that looks official.

They might offer various services, from loan consolidation help to loan forgiveness. They claim they can speed up the loan repayment process or lower monthly payments (for a fee). One recent victim lost $600 to a scam like this one [*].

If a target falls for the fraudulent offer, they unwittingly disclose sensitive information to a criminal - including details like their Social Security number (SSN), IDs, financial information, or whatever else the scammer requests on the fake application form.

Here's how to stay safe:
Avoid speaking with anyone who contacts you claiming to be your loan servicer. Instead, hang up the phone and contact your loan servicer directly, using the contact information from your billing statement, the provider's official website, or your own address book.

3. Damaged used cars selling for sky-high prices

Used car prices hit historic highs in 2021 and 2022 - offering huge opportunities for scammers [*]. If you're shopping for a used car, it can be difficult to determine whether it's actually in good condition. Dishonest sellers tamper with the vehicle's identification number (VIN) or car title, or they hide serious issues like water damage that affect the value of the car.
How the scam works:

In one type of car scam, sellers charge high prices for cars that have endured extensive water damage. Scammers can clean up a flood-damaged car and lie to the buyer about its history.

Title fraud is another common way that scammers fool unsuspecting buyers. They'll sell a salvage title vehicle for the price of one with a pristine record by forging or altering the car title document in a way that the buyer doesn't detect.

Here's how to stay safe:
Thoroughly inspect the vehicle title, and compare it to a legitimate one to check for signs of forgery.

Beware of cars being sold from out of state or with a recently-issued title. It's also ideal to pick the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) as your meet-up location. That way, you can double-check the validity of the vehicle documentation and history, as well as the seller's driver's license information.

4. Google Voice verification code scams

One of the most common scams targeting Americans in the past year involves fraudsters trying to gain access to private Google Voice verification codes. If they're successful, they can use your Google Voice number to run scams, break into your other online accounts, or even harvest more information to steal your identity.
How the scam works:

Fraudsters use social media or online marketplaces to pose as an interested buyer or someone who's found a lost pet. The scammer uses your phone number listed in the ad to start setting up a Google Voice account.

Next, the scammer tells the target that they're about to send them a verification code for "security reasons." This is a classic double-scam ploy in which the scammer acts as if you're the one who they should be worried about.

Here's how to stay safe:

Examples of how scammers try to get your Google Voice verification codes. Source: Trend Micro

Google automatically sends a private authentication code to the victim's phone number as part of the Google Voice account setup process. When the target shares it, the scammer can begin using a new phone number that isn't connected to their identity.

Thankfully, the solution to avoiding this scam is pretty simple: Don't ever share a Google Voice verification code with anyone. It's meant for you and only you, and there's no good reason for anyone else to have it.
Here are some of the most common payment app scams:

Accidental overpayments. Fraudsters target online sellers by posing as a buyer and "accidentally" overpaying the seller on a payment app by using a stolen credit card. They then request a refund paid directly to their own bank account. But when the actual card owner reports the fraud, the money comes out of your account.

Fake fraud alerts. Scammers send spoofed text messages that look like your bank's fraud alerts. But when you call the number in the text, you'll be connected to scammers who pressure you to share personal information or transfer your money to a "secure" account (that they control).

Phishing emails or texts. Hackers create phishing emails or texts that look like they're from Zelle, CashApp, or Venmo. These messages prompt you to click on a link to sign in to your account. But in reality, the link takes you to a fake website that steals your login credentials and gives scammers control of your online accounts.

Here's how to stay safe:
5. Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App scams
⛳️ Related: Wells Fargo Customer? Beware Of These 6 Scams → How the scam works:

You get a robocall claiming to be from the fraud prevention department of your cryptocurrency exchange. It claims there's an unauthorized charge on your account.

The automated call asks you to "verify" your identity by entering a two-factor authentication (2FA) code that's been sent to your phone.

Behind the scenes, a scammer has hacked into your account and needs only this code to gain complete access to your assets. If you share the code, the scammer will take over your account and drain it.

Don't get scammed! Here's how to stay safe:
Unlike purchases made directly through your bank account using your credit card or debit card, payment app transactions are usually irreversible. If you accidentally pay a scammer via Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App, it's the same as handing them cash.
⛳️ Related: The Best Identity Theft Protection for Seniors (2024) →
Treat all online transactions like cash, and don't use payment apps for online transactions with strangers. When you get a message that looks like it's coming directly from a payment app company, verify it by first logging in to your account using the official app or website.
How the scam works:

Fraudsters create fake job listings that offer attention-grabbing perks. Scammers impersonate recruiters or employers, and reach out directly to users on job websites like LinkedIn.

When someone accepts the job, scammers collect sensitive information like the victim's credit card numbers or account information, Social Security numbers (SSNs), and other sensitive documents that can be used to commit identity theft.

Here's how to stay safe:

Job scammers ask for personal details that they can use to steal your identity. Source: Reddit

Victims of job scams are often prompted to make payments for expenses like job training or supplies - requests that a legitimate company would never make.

6. Robocalls attempting to steal 2FA codes

This scam preys on people who hold cryptocurrency in an exchange like Coinbase. It offers the promise of helping safeguard the victim's assets - but in reality, it does just the opposite.
How the scam works:

Fraudsters create phishing emails or texts that impersonate Amazon customer service agents or include security alerts. They fool targets into responding or clicking on malicious links that infect their devices with invasive malware.

Amazon phone scams convince victims to share personally identifiable information (PII) over the phone or make payments to resolve a fake issue or bogus security concern.

Some internet criminals create Amazon lookalike websites (that trick people into entering their payment information) or bait their targets by sending fake Amazon invoice emails for items that they didn't purchase.

Here's how to stay safe:
Never share two-factor authentication codes with anyone for any reason, even if the situation seems legitimate. No cryptocurrency exchange will ever call and ask for your password or 2FA code.

7. Job scams (work-from-home scams)

A common COVID-19 scam involves fake job postings for lucrative work-from-home jobs. In these schemes, fraudsters pose as recruiters and fool victims into providing personal information or sending money to pay for "supplies and training."
How the scam works:

After falling victim to a cryptocurrency scam, you share your story online to warn others or look for solutions.

Someone reaches out over social media or in the comments section of your post and claims to be able to recover stolen cryptocurrency.

Here's how to stay safe:

Fraudsters often post their "success stories" to add legitimacy to scam crypto recovery services. Source: Reddit

To process your "refund," they'll ask you to pay an upfront fee (then disappear with your money) or request sensitive information that gives them access to your crypto wallet.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost a collective $68 million to employment scams during the first quarter of 2022 [*].
How the scam works:

Scammers send an alarming phishing email, text message, or even pop-up ad declaring that your device has been hacked or infected.

The tech support phone number provided in the alert is a direct line to the scammer. Once they get you on the phone, they request remote access to your device in order to "fix" the nonexistent problem.

When they gain access, they install invasive malware, spyware, or even ransomware onto your device. They can also use hacking techniques to steal sensitive data from your hard drive - such as personal and financial information, usernames, and passwords.

Here's how to stay safe:
Do your research before getting too far into the interview process with a potential employer. Search for the name of the business or recruiting company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), as well as on job rating and review websites like Glassdoor.

Finally, never give a recruiter your personal or financial information via email, text message, or phone call.

8. Amazon impostor emails, calls, texts, and more

Of all the well-known businesses out there, Amazon inspires the largest number of impostor scams. Since it's a powerhouse online retailer with a vast customer base, most people won't think twice when they receive a communication that looks like it's from Amazon.
How the scam works:

Scammers create fraudulent home or apartment listings depicting photos of a rental unit that doesn't belong to them. They keep the listing prices below market rates to attract attention from potential renters.

When apartment hunters show interest, the scammer tries to get them to make a payment before meeting up or seeing the unit in person.

The scammer disappears once the payment goes through, leaving the victim to discover that they don't have a new place to live after all.

Here's how to stay safe:
Ignore unsolicited emails or text messages from Amazon, and never use the links or phone numbers they include. If you have any concerns about your account or order history, navigate directly to your Amazon app or the official Amazon website, and call the customer service phone number to get answers.

9. Crypto "recovery" scams (and other refund scams)

This popular scam targets people who have already lost money in a cryptocurrency scam. Fake crypto recovery services promise a quick fix to the devastating loss - but the only result is more money lost in a scam tailored to prey on previous victims.

If you've lost cryptocurrency in a scam, it's essentially impossible to get it back. Ignore messages from anyone who claims to be able to get a refund. They will only scam you out of more money.
How the scam works:

Fraudsters hack into or copy your friend's social media account, email address, phone number, or even payment app platform.

They reach out via social media, email, text message, or direct message, pretending to be the account owner. They ask you to send them money or gift cards to help them out of a tight situation.

Here's how to stay safe:
10. Tech support scams that gain remote access to your computer

Scammers know that most people are afraid of getting hacked or having their computer or phone infected with viruses. In this scam, they trick you into thinking your device has been compromised and then pressure you into downloading software that gives them remote access to your computer.

If you get a troubling message from a tech support team, don't click on links or respond via any contact information listed in the message. Contact Apple, Microsoft, or your antivirus provider by using their official websites or phone numbers.

11. Rental apartment and home scams

A strong sense of urgency. Scammers fabricate high-pressure situations like time-sensitive security alerts, urgent messages, or a limited-time offer for an amazing sweepstakes prize. These scams are designed to make you feel rushed and stressed out. The moment you feel that pressure, take a step back and reevaluate.‍

Threats or scare tactics. Scammers often use fear to get you to act. They may call pretending to be law enforcement and threaten arrest, deportation, cancellation of your Social Security number, or some other dramatic consequence. Legitimate government agencies don't do this.‍

Sob stories and excuses. Whether you'rebuying and selling online, trying to find an apartment to rent, or looking for companionship on a dating platform, beware of anyone who uses a sob story or excuse to ask for money, avoid meeting in person, or request nontraditional payment methods for a purchase. They're probably trying to win your sympathy so they can swindle you.‍

Calls or messages from authoritative or trustworthy organizations. The sooner scammers can establish trust or claim authority, the faster they can steal from you. They impersonate representatives from your credit card company, a well-known organization like Google or Microsoft, or a government agency like the IRS or Medicare. Don't give away any information or click on links before verifying the source elsewhere.‍

Asking for sensitive information. It's not common practice for a legitimate agency or business to contact you out of the blue and request sensitive personal details or have you "confirm" payment information - but this is the bread and butter for all kinds of phishing scams.‍

Insisting on nontraditional payment methods. Using payment apps, gift cards, or wire transfers as payment for an online transaction with a stranger is extremely risky. Scammers prefer these payment methods because they're immediate, irreversible, and lack the security of transactions made via credit and debit card.

With more Americans moving because of the pandemic, fraudsters have created new ways to scam renters. Scammers create fake listings and duplicate ads, and then steal money for deposits or "fees."

In one example, a family from North Carolina replied to a rental listing and paid their first month's rent - only to arrive at the location and discover that the home was never actually for rent [*].

Avoid listings that look too good to be true. Always insist on an in-person meetup and tour of the unit, and don't make any payments beforehand (or before signing a lease agreement). Finally, never agree to use nontraditional payment methods like wire transfers or payment apps.

Freeze your credit with all three credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion). A proactive credit freezeis an easy way to prevent fraudsters from opening up new lines of credit or accounts in your name.

Update your passwords, and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. Visit the settings menu in all of your accounts and apps, and choose the most secure options. Use apassword managerto generate and store secure passwords.

Learn to recognize the signs of a phishing email, text message, or phone call.

Don't refund overpayments. "Accidental" overpayments indicate a scam. Instead of issuing a refund, cut off contact and wait for the fraudulent payment to disappear (since the scammer never really sent you money in the first place).

Register your phone number on the FTC's Do Not Call registry (donotcall.gov). This could lower the amount of spam and robocalls you receive.

12. Fraudsters using your friends' online accounts to scam you

If any of your personal contacts fall victim to account takeover fraud or a data breach, you might get a strange request from someone you think you know. In reality, it's a hacker impersonating your friends or family members by using their personal accounts or spoofing their social media profiles.

One woman from California recently lost hundreds of dollars after a "friend" on Facebook convinced her to sign up for a special program with amazing benefits [*].

If someone you know is acting pushy or asking for money out of the blue, never take it at face value. Don't click on links or continue the conversation - instead, try either calling them directly or contacting them on a different platform.

How To Spot a Scammer in 2024

Although online scams are getting more sophisticated every year, most online con artists recycle the same social engineering strategies repeatedly. With enough information and vigilance, you'll be able to recognize new scams that you've never seen before.

Here are the most common red flags to look out for:

Don't Become a Victim: Here's How To Protect Yourself From Scammers

There are few worse feelings than realizing you've been the victim of a scam. But fraudsters in 2024 know that your personal information can be even more valuable than money.

Don't wait for scammers to pounce. You can significantly reduce your chances of being victimized by a scam - but you have to think proactively. Here's what to do:

For peace of mind, consider signing up for identity theft protection.

Even the best efforts get thwarted sometimes. Aura's comprehensive plan extends beyond identity theft protection and provides overall fraud prevention, digital security, and financial and credit monitoring.

Plus, if the worst should happen, every adult member on an Aura plan is covered for up to $1,000,000 in insurance for eligible losses due to identity theft.

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The 12 Latest Scams You Need To Avoid in 2024

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This year is shaping up to be one of the worst ever for online scams, cybercrime, and fraud. Stay safe by knowing the latest scams making the rounds.

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Impersonator accounts: Virtual Celebrity scam

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Impersonator accounts: Virtual Celebrity scam

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Example: “You’re on Instagram or Facebook, and someone pretending to be Celine Dion or her manager reaches out to you. If it’s a fake manager, “They might say, ‘Celine loves your comments. She’d love to talk to you. Here’s her private account.’ ” But after you connect to an impostor pretending to be the superstar singer, the talk gradually turns to how her fortune is tied up in a lawsuit, and she could use a $50,000 loan from you, or a similar story involving a need for your money.

How to stay safe: If you get a direct message from someone claiming to be a famous performer or superstar athlete or representing them, be skeptical. It’s almost certain to be a scam.

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The Latest Scams You Need to Be Aware of in 2024

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The Latest Scams You Need to Be Aware of in 2024

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Scammers continue to prove that there's no rest for the wicked. While their goals remain the same-get your personal information and money-their strategies are constantly changing with the times. Fraudsters know people are most vulnerable when they're desperate or scared, and use crises and pressure tactics to prey on victims.

Many of the latest schemes are twists on existing scams. That's good news for you, as the measures that have protected you for years can still apply. However, you also want to watch out for the latest developments, particularly when they involve new technology.

Coronavirus, Vaccine and Government Program Scams

Scammers are using the ongoing pandemic as the hook for a variety of scams. These range from selling fake N95 masks to vaccine-related scams, such as offering spots on a priority list. There have also been bogus surveys that gather personal information and fake charities collecting donations from victims.

Government relief programs are commonly beleaguered by scams, and the government response to the pandemic is no exception. Stimulus checks, talk of student loan forgiveness and tax changes can all be woven into scammers' messaging. Fraudsters even used a government program that helps pay funeral expenses as the basis for a scam. And expanded unemployment benefits have led to an increase in fraudulent unemployment benefit claims.

For more information, explore what government agencies have published on the topic of scams. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a coronavirus page with updated news and scam alerts. The IRS also maintains a list of tax-related scams and consumer alerts.

Phone-Related Scams

Scammers may try to get in touch with you by phone, and some phone scams rely on smartphones' capabilities to access the internet and install malware.

Robocalls: Robocalls have people's phones ringing nonstop with increasingly natural-sounding recorded voices offering everything from auto warranties to vacations, and issuing threats. Some systems can even respond to your questions.

Texts: You may receive a text message from an unknown number or email address. Often, these smishing attempts include a link to a website or app.

Impersonators: Scammers impersonate IRS personnel, police, survey takers, relatives, delivery people and well-known companies to threaten you or gain your trust. They use scare tactics related to your Social Security number, criminal record or account before asking for your personal, account or credit card information.

Apps: Scammers may try to get you to install a malicious app to steal your information. Or, rip off existing apps and then make money from in-app purchases.

QR codes: QR codes have gained popularity as a touchless option to do things like read a restaurant menu or make a payment during the pandemic. However, scammers place their QR codes in inconspicuous spots, and scanning the code could prompt you to make a small purchase or enter your credentials on a look-alike website.

Cryptocurrency Scams

As cryptocurrencies continue to buzz, people may fear missing out on their chance to get rich. The scams can take different forms but often involve fake prizes, contests, giveaways or early investment opportunities. The scammers may impersonate celebrities or popular cryptocurrency websites to lure victims into sending them money or sharing login information.

Romance Scams

While romance scams aren't new, they're increasingly popular. According to the FTC, people lost $304 million to romance scams in 2020, up from $75 million in 2016.

Scammers often steal someone's identity or create fake profiles on dating and social media apps to meet victims. There's no surefire method to detect a fake, although scammers may use attractive photos and avoid meeting in person-many use the coronavirus as an excuse.

After gaining your trust, they'll ask you to buy them something or send them money. Or, the person may "mistakenly" send you money and ask you to send it back or forward it to someone else. If your bank later determines that their payment was fraudulent, you'll be out the cash they sent you as well as whatever money you sent out.

Romance scams can target anyone, and some scammers form platonic rather than romantic relationships.

Online Purchase Scams

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) 2020 Scam Tracker Risk Report lists online purchase scams as the scam that posed the biggest risk to consumers in 2020. The basic premise of this type of scam is that you purchase a product or service that's never delivered.

Some coronavirus and vaccine scams are a type of online purchase scam. However, the BBB found that pets and pet supplies accounted for over a third of online purchase scams in 2020.

Often, these scammers sell goods on marketplace websites or social media, although some set up fake ecommerce stores. Paying with a credit card can help you limit potential losses, as you can initiate a chargeback if you don't receive a product or service.

Employment Scams

Employment scams use enticing, and hard-to-detect, lures to target people who've been out of work. Some scammers take a slow approach with interviews and a legitimate-seeming operation. They then collect personal information from your employment forms, or tell you to buy equipment or training.

Other scams get right to the point and promise guaranteed or easy income-if you purchase their program. Sometimes, a fake employer sends a large paycheck and asks you to send the "extra" back-a play on the popular overpayment scam.

Travel Scams

You may want to be extra cautious of travel-related scams in 2021. Offers to buy low-cost vacations, join a vacation club or become a travel agent to access deals can be tempting, but you might not get any real benefit in return. Or, you'll wind up paying extra taxes and fees when you want to book a trip.

Basic Steps to Avoid Getting Scammed

While scammers' delivery methods and messaging can quickly change, a few basic security measures can help protect you from the latest and most common scams:

Be skeptical when someone contacts you. Scammers can spoof calls and emails to make it look like they are coming from different sources, including government agencies, charities, banks and large companies. Don't share personal information, usernames or passwords that others can use to steal your identity.

Research companies. Before you make a purchase or donation, take a few minutes to review the company. Do a web search for its name plus "scam" or "reviews" and research charities on Charity Navigator and CharityWatch.

Be careful with your phone. If you suspect a spam call, don't respond or press a button. The safest option is to hang up or ignore the call entirely. You can always look up the organization and initiate a call yourself if you're worried there may actually be an issue.

Don't refund or forward overpayments. Be careful whenever a company or person asks you to refund or forward part of a payment. Often, the original payment will be fraudulent and taken back later.

Look for suspicious payment requirements. Scammers often ask for payments via wire transfer, money order, cryptocurrency or gift cards. These payments can be harder to track and cancel than other forms of payment, which can leave you stuck without recourse.

If you're the victim of a scam, you can file a report with the FTC and law enforcement. The report may help others avoid similar scams.

Continue Monitoring Your Identity

Following basic safety strategies and reviewing the latest scam alerts can help you stay safe. But mistakes happen, particularly when you're stressed or overwhelmed. Even if you're doing everything right, your information could be compromised in a data breach.

Sign up for free credit monitoring to get alerted when there are unexpected changes in your credit report, which could help you quickly respond to some types of fraud. Additionally, an identity theft monitoring service, such as Experian IdentityWorksSM, will look for your personal information in more databases and on the dark web. It also comes with identity theft insurance, which can help cover the cost of recovering from identity theft.

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The Latest Scams You Need to Be Aware of in 2021

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Scammers continue to prove that there's no rest for the wicked. While their goals remain the same-get your personal information and money-their strategies are constantly changing with the times.

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SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK

During the 31th National Suicide Prevention Week, the AQPS and its partners will unveil the all-new Talking About Suicide Saves Lives awareness campaign. Although the event runs from January 31 to February 6, 2021, the campaign may be deployed throughout the year.

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During the 31th National Suicide Prevention Week, the AQPS and its partners will unveil the all-new Talking About Suicide Saves Lives awareness campaign. Although the event runs from January 31 to February 6, 2021, the campaign may be deployed throughout the year.

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As Canada's tipline for reporting online child sexual abuse and exploitation, Cybertip.ca is dedicated to reducing child victimization through technology, education, public awareness, along with supporting survivors and their families.

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a fraudulent or deceptive act or operation… See the full definition

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Many scams and frauds attempt to imitate government services in order to gain access to your personal and financial information. To identify legitimate communications from us, read these guidelines and know what to expect if we contact you.

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Scamfish - A Consumer Protection Publication - SocialCatfish.com

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Online scams are rising in Canada at an unprecedented rate. Canadians lost a record $380 million to online scammers in 2021, up more than double from $165 million in 2020.

These statistics are alarming and in lock step with the broader global trend in which scammers have thrived during the pandemic.

COVID-19 led to more people working, shopping, and socializing online. This created a tremendous opportunity for criminals - who have become exponentially sophisticated in recent years - to flood cyberspace with fraud. Law enforcement officials in both the U.S. and UK have noted similar increases as seen in Canada over the last several years.

At Social Catfish, we have seen a surge in users to our website from Canada over the last year. To educate people about the current landscape of online scams in Canada, we analyzed data provided directly to us directly by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre over the last five years from 2017-2021, as well people searches and trends from our Canadian users.
Below we share the insights from our analysis including:
· A breakdown of which provinces lost the most money and had the most victims.

· The most common online scams taking place in Canada

· The most vulnerable age groups.

· Tips to avoid these scams.
LEAKED New Nigerian Romance Scammer Bible: "How To Make White Woman Fall In Love From Online Chat"
Victims in Ontario have lost the most in scams since 2017, a combined $313 million, and they also have the highest per-report loss, just over $3,000 per incident. Compared to scam victims in Newfoundland and Labrador, who lost about $550 per incident, those in Ontario are much more likely to be taken for tidy sums.

Of the roughly 104,000 Canadian scam victims since 2017 whose province of residence is known, 43 percent were from Ontario, which is by far the nation's largest province. Because of the huge variation in population from province to province, it's necessary to adjust figures for differences in the number of residents. Accounting for those changes, the province with the highest scam rate over the past five years is Manitoba.

Canadian provinces by scam victims per 100,000 residents, 2017-2021

The most common type of scam reported in Canada is extortion, accounting for nearly 30 percent of all incidents over the past five years. But that doesn't necessarily mean extortion is the costliest type of scam.

For example, while romance scams account for only about 2 percent of incidents, they comprise 20 percent of all dollars lost over the past five years, which is the second-highest rate among all scam types.

Romance scams are especially costly, as we've learned. In 2021, the average loss by victim in Canada was just under $54,000, but people in some age groups were much more likely to lose large sums in romance scams.

People between the ages of 60 and 69 lost the highest amount on average, about $81,000, while those ages 10-19 lost the least, about $2,600 on average.

3 MOST COMMON SCAMS IN CANADA AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Investment Scams: Cybercriminals will offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities with high rates of return and little risk. The "opportunity" may even have a stunning website but everything on it is fake.
How to Avoid: Do not invest with someone you do not know without exhaustive research. The hot scam is to ask you to fund the investment using cryptocurrency, or to invest in a new type of crypto.
Romance Scams: Scammers target online singles and get them to fall in love. Though they never agree to meet, they earn the victims trust and begin to request money for emergencies.
How to Avoid: Never give money or personal information - which can be used for identity theft - to anyone you have not met in person. Take their online photo and do a reverse image search with it confirm their real identity in seconds. Extortion Scams from RCMP: Fake RCMP emails are accusing people of serious criminal charges and asking them to respond to a fake law enforcement email address. They ask for payment to avoid going to jail. How to Avoid: Law enforcement will never demand payment or threaten arrest by email or phone. If concerned, call the law enforcement agency directly.
In conclusion, there will always be criminals taking advantage of advances in technology to steal from others. However, by raising awareness and educating people about the threats they face online, we are able to mitigate those risks.
5 GENERAL TIPS TO AVOID ONLINE SCAMS

Do not give money or personal information to someone on the Internet whom you have never met in person.

Do not trust anyone that will not video chat or meet in person.

To verify if a person is who they say they are, use the photo from their online profile to do a reverse image search.

If a financial or government agency reaches out asking for money, do not respond and call that organization directly on your own to verify.
Social Catfish is Here to Help You!
If you are the victim of an online scam, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

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ONLINE SCAMS SURGE ACROSS CANADA, HERE ARE THE MOST AND LEAST-SCAMMED PROVINCES

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Online scams are rising in Canada at an unprecedented rate. Canadians lost a record $380 million to online scammers in 2021, up more than double from $165 million in 2020. These statistics are alarming and in lock step with the broader global trend in which scammers have thrived during the pandemic.

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In an attempt to create awareness and protect people from scammers, the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police has compiled a list of the top 10 scams in Canada.

Sweepstakes scam

This one has been around for years. You get a message saying you've won a contest, lottery or sweepstakes event. Then you're asked to pay fees or taxes in advance in order to claim your prize.

Clickbait scam

Scammers use "clickbait" such as news stories, celebrity photos or fake news to get you to click on something that actually downloads malware that can harm your computer.

Robocall scam

This scam takes personal information such as your credit card number and promises to lower your credit card interest rates, but then charges fees to your card.

Government grant scam

This one requests fees so you can collect a government grant award for thousands of dollars. It may mention programs you've heard of in the news.

Emergency or 'grandparent' scam

Often preying on older people, a scammer poses as a relative in a call or email claiming to have been injured, robbed or arrested while travelling overseas. They ask their target to send money right away.

Medical alert scam

This involves a call or a visit from a "company" claiming a concerned family member has ordered you a medical alert device in case of an emergency. The scammer takes credit card or banking information, but never delivers the device.

Copycat website scam

Scammers send an email, text or social media post about a sale or exciting new product, linking to a website that looks like a legitimate retailer. After you place an order using your credit card, you get a cheap counterfeit product or nothing at all.

'Are you calling yourself?' scam

This trick puts your number in so it shows up as on your own on your phone's caller ID, which causes many people to answer the phone or return the call.

Tech support scam

A call or pop-up ad on your computer claims to be from a computer company like Microsoft or Apple about a problem on your computer and asks you to give the tech support department access to your hard drive to fix it. Instead, malware is installed on your computer and the scammers can then steal your personal information.

Arrest scam

This trick starts with a call from someone claiming to be a police officer or government agent - often the Canada Revenue Agency - who say they are coming to arrest you for overdue taxes or for skipping out on jury duty. They claim you can get out of it by sending them money via a prepaid debit card or wire transfer. CRA does not do business in this fashion.

Credit rating company Equifax suggests checking your credit report at least once a year and reporting discrepancies immediately. Using strong passwords, activating the firewall on your computer, and never giving out personal information unless you have initiated the contact are some of the top tips to avoid fraud.

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Sweepstakes, clickbait and tech support: 10 scams preying on Canadians | CBC News

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In an attempt to create awareness and protect people from scammers, the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police has compiled a list of the top 10 scams in Canada.

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Online scams are increasing in frequency, causing hard working Canadians to lose large sums of money, their personal finance information, their homes, and their sense of security.

We spend a lot of time online - thanks to our smartphones, tablets, and other convenient devices - and criminals are taking advantage of our online presence. As new types of technology and software develop, so do the methods scammers use to steal from us.

If you're wondering what the most common types of scams are and how you can avoid them, you're not alone. There are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from falling prey to these unfortunate situations.

5 online scams directed at shoppers

We all know we're supposed to be careful while online shopping, and these scams are exactly why we hear this safety bit preached so often.

Make an effort to be a smart shopper so you don't fall for these scams.

1. Receiving counterfeit products

It used to be that you'd mostly encounter counterfeit products when shopping in person at sketchy retailers, or maybe from street vendors looking to trick you out of a few dollars.

Nowadays, scam artists have an easier time manipulating shoppers through the internet. Fake retail websites, knockoff products, and unsolicited links are all means by which these criminals try to make money by pulling the wool over our eyes.

And it works - the Vancouver Sun reports that online shopping scams accounted for nearly 1/3 of all reported scams in Canada in 2021.

This type of scams can manifest in several ways:

Ordering brand-name products but receiving knockoffs

Receiving goods you didn't order at all

3rd-party marketplace sellers selling defective or low-quality products

Sometimes you'll encounter an online seller obviously selling knockoffs, but other times their products look to be genuine and of good quality - but the order you receive from them is anything but.

Source: Reddit

2. Watch for fake retailers

So you're surfing through Facebook and see an ad for a cool tshirt with a hilarious slogan you've never seen before, click on it, and find yourself on an odd-looking site. But the tshirt is really fun, so you order it anyway.

But that tshirt never arrives. Yup, you fell prey to a fake retailer.

Fake retailers can get you in a few ways. They might never send you the items you purchased, or they might offer luxury items for low prices that seem too good to be true.

Either way, you've put your faith in a company that either doesn't exist or exists for purposes other than what they claim to stand for.

And because the online retail space is so fluid, these companies could completely vanish (and likely, rebrand themselves to keep the scam going) within minutes of your purchase.

3. Fake reviews are a thing

Have you ever noticed a listing on Amazon that one day has a certain number of reviews and the next day has about a thousand more? Or maybe there's a single poster or even posters with suspiciously similar usernames who've left multiple posts?

Chances are, most of these reviews are fake.

Sometimes these reviews are generated by bots and sometimes they're written by actual people who are hired to pump up a product or are given free products in return for glowing reviews.

Sometimes, it's the devious company's expert copywriters who are asked to write legitimate-sounding reviews that make the product sound like the next big thing.

The point is to mislead shoppers into thinking that these items are more reliable and of better quality than they really are.

Luckily, there are some sites and services (not affiliated with Amazon) that can help you determine whether a review is legit or not. Fakespot is a browser add-on that can analyze reviews as you shop, and ReviewMeta is a site where you input the URL of the product you're looking at, and it provides a new rating based on only the legitimate reviews.

4. Mystery shoppers

For many people, being paid to shop is a dream come true. You'll want to be careful of any ads you see online looking for mystery shoppers, though.

In a legitimate secret shopper job, the company will reimburse you for any amount you spend at the retailer or business you're checking out, and you'll be paid a fee for your services. Any ad that mentions other arrangements is likely a scam.

If you do see an ad that looks promising, take note of these details:

You should never have to pay to become a mystery shopper.

Ignore ads that claim you'll make extraordinary amounts of money.

Paying for a list of mystery shopper opportunities shouldn't be necessary.

Don't ever wire money as part of your shopping assignment.

Depositing cheques into your own bank account and then sending money back to the "company" isn't necessary - don't do it.

Any ads or job listings that include any of the above information are likely fraudulent opportunities.

5. Tricks with overpayment

Here is a type of scam that targets sellers instead of buyers with clever tactics involving overpayment.

Sometimes, a fake buyer might purchase your item on Etsy, Kijiji, Marketplace, or wherever, and send you way more money than you were asking for. It's only after you've sent them a refund for the difference that you realize the payment was fraudulent to begin with.

This kind of fraud often involves cheques for sales you've listed in newspapers or somewhere similar. The cheque they send is a fake, but you won't find out until the bank processes it and alerts you.

In 2021, the RCMP issued warnings about just such a scam involving fraudulent cheques in Kelowna, BC. Both business and personal cheques were involved, indicating that we should all be wary even if we receive an official-looking cheque.

8 phishing online scams

You've probably heard the term "phishing" before and wondered exactly what it means.

The Government of Canada defines it as a scam that comes in the form of an email and "attempt[s] to gain your personal or financial information."

"Smishing" is a similar scam format, but these come via text message.

However they get to you, these messages come in a wide range of forms and formats, so watch out.

6. Nigerian prince emails

The Nigerian prince email scam, or 419 fraud, is probably the one most commonly talked about. It's been around for a long time too - the email version was first noticed in 1980s when email was first taking off as a form of communication.

These days, you won't get anything handwritten, but you might receive an email or other form of communication from someone claiming to be overseas, wealthy, and unable to access their funds. You'll be asked for either your bank account number (allegedly for transferring money to you) or an advance payment (they'll pay you back later).

Unfortunately, many people still fall victim to these scams. An NBC article from 2019 claimed that there were more than 20,000 reports of these incidents in 2018 alone. Victims are often too ashamed to come forward, so it's possible the true number of these crimes is far larger.

This scam has become so ubiquitous, it's now a part of pop culture. There have been books written, movies and TV shows made, and plenty of other pop culture references. Actress Anne Hathaway even made jokes about it when she hosted Saturday Night Live in 2009.

Here's an example so you know what to look out for:

Source: Mother Jones

7. "Travelling relative gets into trouble" scam email

You'd think you could trust an email from a family member, but...depending on the subject matter, you should be careful.

This particular scam involves imposters posing as your close family member or friend and claiming to be in financial trouble. Usually, they say they've been travelling and have either lost their wallet or otherwise run into trouble and need emergency funds sent ASAP.

In fact, these are sometimes called Grandparent Scams because they target grandparents or elderly people who are likely to react to an emotional message from a loved one. Sometimes the scammers will even call their victims, posing as a friend or relative in an emergency situation.

8. Package and mail delivery scams

Especially during the recent years of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, we've all become pretty dependent on package delivery. So when we receive an email that says you've missed a delivery, we're going to pay attention.

However, scammers are now sending fraudulent emails just like this. They say that you've missed a delivery so now you have to pay to get it back, and include a phishing link cleverly disguised as a way to track your order.

The information you enter into the form you encounter through these links is instead used to access your personal financial information, among other things.

Here's an example from 2021:

When you clicked through the link, the scammers had made a pretty convincing fake UPS site to bring the scam home.

9. Scares involving viruses or compromised accounts

If you get an email with text similar to the following message, try not to panic.

"I have hacked your device."

"Your account has been locked."

"Your account has been compromised."

"Your account is being used by another person."

"Your information has been compromised."

The composers of the email may depict themselves as someone who's infected your device with a Trojan-type virus that gives them remote access. They may say they've noticed you accessing pornogrophy or some other scandalous online content and that they'll release evidence of this activity if you don't send them money.

Or, they may simply say that they've gained access to your device and your accounts, pressuring you to pay them to restore your privacy.

Whatever they say, it's more than likely very untrue. Chances are good that these are people trying to either get payment from you or find and use your personal information for their own gain.

But if something like this scares you, it may be time to get a reliable VPN. These Virtual Private Networks encrypt your data so it makes it almost impossible for hackers or even your ISP to track your internet activity.

Want one of the best VPNs in Canada? Check out ExpressVPN:

ExpressVPN is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service that protects your personal data with end-to-end encryption, giving you control over your own online privacy and security. You'll also have the ability to get around geoblocking of certain websites and services, whether it's American Netflix, Hulu, or other content we can't normally access in Canada.

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10. Contest winner online scams

Last year, the Federal Trade Commission in the U.S. received nearly 150,000 reports of fraud that involved prizes, sweepstakes, lotteries, and the like.

Scams like these will involve an email or perhaps an online popup message excitedly informing the recipient that they've won a big prize of some sort. But once you've clicked on the link or popup, you'll notice that they aren't asking you to report to them and find out how to collect your winnings.

Instead, they'll usually instruct you to do one of 2 things. They'll ask for a whole bunch of personal information, which will later be used to access your accounts, funds, etc. Or they'll want you to pay a processing fee, taxes, insurance, or something similar, before your prize can be sent.

Another form of this same scam can take the form of a surprising inheritance from an obscure relative. You'll receive an email discussing valuable property or a large sum of money that was suddenly left to you after the death of a relative you've never heard of.

Emails like this can be surprisingly convincing. They often include:

personal information about you and your family,

the name of a legitimate law firm, or

official-looking documentation.

But they'll almost always mention a small balance that needs to be cleared up before your newfound wealth can be accessed.

Source: WikiHow

11. Dating and romance scammers

Unfortunately, there are several types of romance-related scams happening in Canada these days. Especially during the lockdowns and stay-at-home times we've gone through with COVID-19, many Canadians were forming and maintaining relationships online as a safer alternative.

And scammers have been taking advantage of this.

Fake dating profiles on dating apps and sites are popping up all the time, and these criminals are very talented, sweet-talking their victims into believing they've formed a caring, stable relationship.

But this is far from the truth.

Here are a few examples of how these scammers manipulate in order to gain access to their victim's finances:

an emergency situation occurs and they need financial help ASAP,

a family member (usually a child or a parent) is in trouble and they don't have the funds they need to help out,

an odd circumstance occurs and they ask you to receive money from them somehow,

they join or start a new business and want you to invest with them,

a recent cryptocurrency investment takes off and they encourage you to invest too, or

they use intimate photos of you as blackmail and demand large sums of money before they'll destroy the photos.

Aside from these situations where the fraudulent romantic partner is trying to get money, there are situations where these online predators groom their victims so they can force them into the sex trades.

Source: ScamWatch

12. Calls, text, or emails from CRA

This is another common scam that many Canadians have encountered.

You'll get an email, text, or maybe even a phone call from a source claiming to be the CRA, saying one of 2 things:

you owe money in taxes and have to pay up ASAP, or

you've got a refund coming to you.

If your message says you owe money, they'll insist that you pay up immediately, using Bitcoin, prepaid cards, or something similar. This way, they don't even have to use your personal information or hack into any accounts because you're straight up giving them the money.

Plus, you'll be threatened to not speak to anyone about the situation. If you were unsure about whether or not the message was legitimate, this is a dead giveaway.

On the other hand, if they tell you there's a tax refund owed to you, they'll ask for personal details and/or send you a link for instructions on how to claim it.

13. Beware of fake charities

Charity-related scams hurt everyone, really.

Genuine charities miss out on much-needed help, victims are robbed of money, safety, and security, and the general public develops a sense of distrust for charities and non-profits. Which, in turn, affects the genuine charities again.

Sometimes referred to as donation solicitation scams, these situations take many forms, like:

disaster relief funds set up after a recent natural disaster or terrorist attack,

an organization that you previously worked with or donated to, or

an individual claiming to work with an organization supporting disability/medical issue awareness, endangered animals, police/firefighter fundraising, etc.

And there are a variety of methods these scammers take to advertise and/or contact you with their request for donations:

fake social media accounts and/or pages,

crowdfunding efforts,

emails, texts, phone calls, etc. providing a suspicious link, or

flyers, posters, or other advertising materials.

You'll notice that fraudulent charities tend to pop up around the Christmas holidays, which is a time that people often donate anyway.

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5 too-good-to-be-true offers and online scams

Fraudsters take advantage of our desire to find good deals and the excitement we feel when we get something special for cheap.

But - you've heard it before but it bears repeating - if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

14. Unbelievable, extremely good deals

Most of us look for the lowest price on the items we buy, especially if they're generally more expensive items. Jewelry, technology, and higher-priced items do go on sale but there's still a general range that even sale prices fall into. We don't expect to pay anything less than this range.

But scammers will list these usually-pricey items for unbelievable prices, trying to lure us in with shock value.

Here are a few examples of where you might come across these scams and how they might look:

social media ads for huge sales, clearout prices, etc.,

website popups with ads for big-ticket items at low cost,

emails or texts with shopping links for usually high-priced items at low prices, or

Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, or other legitimate forums listing brand new items at bargain prices.

We mentioned online shopping scams above, but these are a bit different. Rather than receiving damaged or knockoff items, in these cases you likely won't receive the product at all.

Instead, by clicking on the ad, link, or popup, you'll be asked for payment information and/or personal information the scammers can use to defraud you.

Source: Verified.org

15. Quick and miraculous weight loss suggestions

Body image issues are far too common among Canadians (including teens) and fraudsters will prey on this perceived weakness.

They'll create social media pages and ads, send emails and texts, and otherwise advertise these miracle cures for weight loss to draw us in. These phoney products can take many forms, including these:

diet pills,

weight loss programs,

"fat-busting" products and devices, or

celebrity-endorsed products or programs for weight loss.

Remember, miracle cures don't actually exist.

16. Job offers with companies that don't exist

We all have dream jobs, but it's unlikely that the perfect job offer from the perfect employer will suddenly appear out of nowhere...right?

Yes, scams of this sort do occur, and far too often.

You might be offered a fantastic work-from-home position that includes providing you with a large sum of money to use on business plans, computer equipment, startup materials, etc. It's possible you'll even be sent a cheque or other form of signing bonus just for getting started.

But once you deposit these funds, you'll find the cheque is fraudulent.

In other cases, scams take the form of very real-looking recruitment ads. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has identified car-wrapping and mystery shopper jobs in particular as being common examples of fraud in our country.

These situations involve an ad posted on a legitimate employment opportunity website, but once the applicant is given the job, they're asked to deposit a cheque into their personal bank account and transfer funds from that account to cover various supplies, make purchases, etc.

As you might guess, this gives criminals the access they need to drain your bank accounts and steal your personal identification information.

Source: Art+Logic

17. Cryptocurrency scams and security issues

Cryptocurrency scams are some of the most common types of scams occurring in North America. In fact, the CAFC reports that in 2021, the amount of reported losses due to crypto fraud was about $75 million.

The average person loses about $1,500 to this type of fraud.

The RCMP website details what these scams might look like:

a phone call or email from a supposed government official requesting immediate payment of a fee via cryptocurrency,

an online relationship that takes a sudden turn when the other party demands money in the form of cryptocurrency in order to help you solve a problem, or

receiving notice that you're a prize winner, but it can only be claimed after paying fees via cryptocurrency.

Whatever the method, these scammers are ultimately looking for ways to access your digital wallet, security codes, and other personal information.

18. Real estate scams

Situations involving real estate scams can involve either rental units or properties for sale on the housing market.

Rental scams

With rentals, you might come across an ad or listing for a gorgeous, surprisingly low-priced property that's ready for new tenants. There are often pictures of a bright, clean, newly-renovated space with all kinds of amenities, usually located in a desirable area.

But when you send a message and ask for more details or to view the property, the owner's response can be cryptic and/or unusual. They might say that they can't arrange a viewing until you provide a deposit, or they're out of town at the moment and require financial commitment to ensure nobody else takes the space before they return and can show it to you.

Either way, these types of responses are serious red flags.

House scams

Houses and owned properties are a little bit different. A fraudster might steal the title to your home and proceed to apply for a mortgage against it or even list it on the market for sale.

Or, if you're facing hard times and having difficulty making the mortgage payments, you might be tricked by someone offering to get you a loan to help with your payments if you'll just transfer your property into their name.

But, of course, once the property is in their name, they can sell it out from underneath you.

Source: VOCM

7 tips to avoid online scams

As some of the statistics we mentioned above indicate, people fall for scams all the time. People of all ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds are all susceptible to these crimes.

But as unfortunate as these cases are, we can learn from them and take steps to protect ourselves from falling victim to similar schemes.

1. Make sure the website is secure

First, you should check whether the site you're on is secure so you're assured your information is kept private. To determine this, there are a few things you can look for in the address bar:

To the left of the URL, there should be a tiny icon of a padlock in the locked position.

There might be a tiny i-shaped information symbol - this indicates that the site isn't secure.

If you see a small red triangle with an exclamation mark in its centre, this is a warning that the site is "dangerous."

2. Be careful with online security

There are many steps you can take to make sure you're staying safe online, but here are a few of the most important ones:

When using public WiFi networks, make sure they're secure.

Use secure passwords, don't use the same password for multiple sites, and update them regularly.

Install antivirus software.

Back up your data on a regular basis.

Double check all links to verify authenticity before clicking.

Use a VPN for extra security.

For social media, you'll want to take similar steps to ensure privacy, plus a few extra things. Use unique passwords and update them often, tweak your settings so only close friends and family can see your activity, and log off when you're finished browsing.

If you're worried that your security has been breached, there are steps to take that we'll discuss below. In particular, if you're worried that your financial information has been compromised, you can always sign up for credit reports where you can check for fraudulent activity.

If you want to keep an eye on your credit information, a credit monitoring service may be a good tool for you. For example, MogoAccount offers free monthly credit score monitoring.

Learn more here:

MogoAccount gives you quick and easy access to your credit score through the Mogo app. Mogo obtains the information from Equifax, 1 of Canada's 2 major credit bureaus. You'll also get access to tips that will help you improve your credit score, and daily money tips that you can use to build better financial habits.

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3. Look out for strangely personal questions

If an email is from a name you don't know, a company you don't recognize, or otherwise looks odd in your inbox, don't bother to open it. If you do open it, do not click on any links unless you've determined that the sender is someone you know.

Any questions involving strange questions involving your SIN, your mother's maiden name, or any such details should be ignored and the email deleted.

The same goes for website popups, unusual texts, surprise messages on social media, and any other form of communication. Do not click on unfamiliar links or answer personal questions.

Source: Zapier

4. Remember how legitimate companies and individuals operate

It's well known that the CRA and other legitimate government agencies won't send text messages, and they likely won't send emails either. If they do want to contact you, they'll send mail through Canada Post or perhaps give you a phone call.

But even if they do call, they won't do these things:

ask for credit card numbers,

use any threatening or aggressive language,

request immediate payment via e-transfer, Bitcoin, gift cards, or prepaid cards,

ask for your passport, health card, or driver's license information.

5. Obvious spelling and grammar mistakes

To determine a website's authenticity, carefully examine how the company name is spelled and punctuated in the URL. If you're looking at Amaz0n.ca instead of Amazon.ca, or maybe Disney-plus.com instead of Disneyplus.com, the site is obviously a phoney.

When looking at products and services for sale on various platforms, check the spelling and grammar for obvious errors. If the language in the ad is disjointed, garbled, or at all confusing, you should be skeptical.

6. Grainy or unclear images

Similar to checking a site or seller's spelling and grammar, you should also study the quality of the photos or artwork. If the photos and images are fuzzy, grainy, or at all unclear, you should question their authenticity.

But photoshop is a common software tool scammers use to disguise the fact that their products are fake, so the images may look completely clear. So if you have other reasons to suspect foul play, you can use Google's reverse image search to see if they came from another site.

Another thing to look out for is bad photoshop. Often, with fake products, fraudulent companies will (badly) photoshop their item onto stock photos, and video assets made by the company may include heavy usage of stock videos, graphics, and captions.

Source: Amazon

7. Avoid clicking links directly in an email

Phishing has been a popular fraudster tactic for several years now, but people still fall victim to the lure of the links. Sure, sometimes it's an accident, but sometimes curiosity gets the better of us.

No matter how legit the email may seem, it's always best practice to manually make your way to the website the way you usually do - NOT by clicking the links in the email. By clicking, you make yourself vulnerable, creating pathways for criminals to access your private information and accounts.

What to do if you were a target of an online scam

Don't panic, this isn't the first time it's happened (and it won't be the last).

If you do suspect that you're the victim of a scam artist, there are a few steps you can take to report and hopefully fix the situation.

Step 1: Gather all the info you have

First, you'll want to list all the information you think is relevant. This can include:

the name of the person, business, or organization that contacted you,

the method they used to contact you,

a copy of the original email or text, or the number the call originated from if they contacted you by phone,

the exact address and name of the website in question, plus any Google search terms you used to find it, and

documentation like receipts, chatroom or newsgroup messages, faxes, phone bills, printed emails, etc.

The more information you can collect to present, the better.

Step 2: Report the online scam

Report the scam to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre as well as your local law enforcement organization. They'll take your information and use it for the following purposes:

investigate and hopefully prosecute the criminals,

spot trends that can help prevent similar occurrences,

educate the public about how and what to look for, and

compile the data for statistical purposes.

You should contact the authorities in a timely manner, especially if you've lost money to this scam.

Step 3: Let your bank know and reissue any cards you used

If you entered your credit card, banking, or other financial institution information, you'll need to let the bank/issuer know ASAP. You'll want to get a new credit card and/or switch bank accounts so you'll have new numbers that no one else has access to.

Also, if you sent money via a transfer service or online payment provider, you should contact them and let them know about the fraudulent activity taking place through their service.

Step 4: Let the credit bureaus know

If you suspect the fraudster may try to steal your identity, you can contact both credit bureaus (TransUnion and Equifax) and ask them to put flags on your account. Once a fraud alert is added to your account, a note is added to your file that warns companies that your personal information may have been compromised.

This ensures that any accounts being opened in your name will face extra scrutiny, making it more difficult for fraudsters to succeed.

You can also request to be sent regular credit reports so you can keep an eye out for suspicious activity - in fact, you could take advantage of this service even if you haven't been scammed. This way, you can be assured of notification in case anything ever does go wrong.

Both credit bureaus also offer credit monitoring straight from the source. If you're going through a particularly vulnerable situation, you may want to consider paying a small fee for a month to keep a close eye on things.

You can learn more about TransUnion's credit monitoring service here, as an example:

As a major Canadian credit bureau, TransUnion's credit monitoring service is a reliable way to keep on top of your TransUnion credit score and credit report. You'll get unlimited access to your up-to-date credit information, so you can track any errors or inconsistencies, plus monitor how your score is doing.

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Have you encountered online scams before?

Online scams aren't going to disappear anytime soon. It's important that you take steps to protect yourself so you can surf the internet safely. It's also important to immediately investigate and report to the authorities any time you think you've been scammed.

What about you? What kind of precautions do you take to protect yourself online?

Or maybe you've been the unfortunate victim of a scam artist - how did this affect you? How have your habits changed since then?

We'd love to hear what you have to say. Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment section below.

FAQ

What are the most common online scams?

Cryptocurrency scams are the most common form of fraud occurring in Canada. These scams can take various forms, but always involve the victim's online currency being stolen or compromised. Scams involving online shopping also occur quite frequently. Sometimes the situation involves fake websites or less-than-honest 3rd party sellers, and other times there might be an overabundance of fake reviews that jack up the product rating.

How can you tell if someone is scamming you online?

It depends on the situation, but identifying an online scammer can be tricky. If you receive unsolicited text, emails, or other communication that contains a link, the sender is likely trying to scam you. 3rd party sellers often try scamming their online shoppers too, so watch out for listings with grammar mistakes, spelling errors, and fuzzy images.

Are there any online dating scams?

Unfortunately, yes, there are several different types of romance-related scams that occur in Canada. Predators try things like creating fake online dating profiles, creating insincere romantic relationships, and then asking for large sums of money. Or they might threaten the victim by saying they'll release intimate photos if they don't receive a big payment.

What are online survey scams?

Online survey scams happen when you participate in a poll or survey that you received through an unsolicited email, text, or direct message on social media. These questionnaires also ask for your credit card info or other personal details that provide fraudsters with the means they need to hack your accounts and take your money.

Where do I report online scams?

You should report any online scams you encounter to your local law enforcement department as well as to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Reporting these crimes allows these agencies to investigate and make the scammers pay for their crimes. It also allows them to warn the public to be on the lookout for similar situations.

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18 Common Online Scams In Canada - And How Not To Be The Next Victim | moneyGenius

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Online scams are more common than you may realize. But which ones are the most common and how do you avoid becoming a victim? We discuss these questions and more in our deep dive into internet scams.

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We truly want to believe that the Internet is a safe place where you can't fall for all types of online scams, but it's always a good reminder to do a "reality check". We, humans, can become an easy target for malicious actors who want to steal our most valuable personal data. Criminal minds can reach these days further than before, into our private lives, our homes and work offices. And there is little we can do about it. Attack tactics and tools vary from traditional attack vectors, which use malicious software and vulnerabilities present in almost all the programs and apps (even in the popular Windows operating systems), to ingenious phishing scams deployed from unexpected regions of the world, where justice can't easily reach out to catch the eventual perpetrators. According to a from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), millennials are particularly more vulnerable to online scams than seniors, as shocking as it may seem. The research finds that "40 percent of adults age 20-29 who have reported fraud ended up losing money in a fraud case".

Source: Federal Trade Commision

For this reason, we need to know what are the most popular techniques malicious actors are using to get unauthorized access to our private information and financial data. We must not forget their final target is always our money and there is nothing they won't do to accomplish their mission. Use the links below to quickly navigate the list of online scams you need to stay away from right now.

1. Phishing email scams

More than one third of all security incidents start with phishing emails or malicious attachments sent to company employees, according to a new report from F-Secure. Phishing scams continue to evolve and be a significant online threat for both users and organizations that could see their valuable data in the hands of malicious actors. The effects of phishing attacks can be daunting, so it is essential to stay safe and learn how to detect and prevent these attacks.

Phishing scams are based on communication made via email or on social networks. In many cases, cyber criminals will send users messages/emails by trying to trick them into providing them valuable and sensitive data ( login credentials - from bank account, social network, work account, cloud storage) that can prove to be valuable for them. Moreover, these emails will seem to come from an official source (like bank institutions or any other financial authority, legitime companies or social networks representatives for users.) This way, they'll use social engineering techniques by convincing you to click on a specific (and) malicious link and access a website that looks legit, but it's actually controlled by them. You will be redirect to a fake login access page that resembles the real website.

If you're not paying attention, you might end up giving your login credentials and other personal information. We've seen many spam email campaigns in which phishing were the main attack vector for malicious criminals used to spread financial and data stealing malware. In order for their success rate to grow, scammers create a sense of urgency. They'll tell you a frightening story of how your bank account is under threat and how you really need to access as soon as possible a site where you must insert your credentials in order to confirm your identity or your account. After you fill in your online banking credentials, cyber criminals use them to breach your real bank account or to sell them on the dark web to other interested parties. Here's an example of a sophisticated email scam making the rounds that you should be very careful. Source: News.com.au

Use this complete guide on how to detect and prevent phishing attacks (filled with screenshots and actionable tips) to better fight these attacks.

2. The Nigerian scam

Probably one of the oldest and most popular Internet scams used mostly by a member of a Nigerian family with wealth to trick different people. It is also known as "Nigerian 419", and named after the section of Nigeria's Criminal Code that banned the practice. A typical Nigerian scam involves an emotional email, letter, text message or social networking message coming from a scammer (which can be an official government member, a businessman or a member of a very wealthy family member - usually a woman) who asks you to give help in retrieving a large sum of money from a bank, paying initially small fees for papers and legal matters. In exchange for your help, they promise you a very large sum of money. They will be persistent and ask you to pay more and more money for additional services, such as transactions or transfer costs. You'll even receive papers that are supposed to make you believe that it's all for real. In the end, you are left broke and without any of the promised money. Here's how a Nigerian scam could look like:

3. Greeting card scams

Whether it's Christmas or Easter, we all get all kind of holiday greeting cards in our email inbox that seem to be coming from a friend or someone we care. Greeting card scams are another old Internet scams used by malicious actors to inject malware and harvest users' most valuable data. If you open such an email and click on the card, you usually end up with malicious software that is being downloaded and installed on your operating system. The malware may be an annoying program that will launch pop-ups with ads, unexpected windows all over the screen. If your system becomes infected with such dangerous malware, you will become one of the bots which are part of a larger network of affected computers. If this happens, your computer will start sending private data and financial information to a fraudulent server controlled by IT criminals. To keep yourself safe from identity theft and data breach, we recommend using a specialized security program against this type of online threats. To find out more information about financial malware, read this . And here's how you can tell if your computer was infected with malware.

4. Bank loan or credit card scam

People can be easily scammed by "too good to be true" bank offers that might guarantee large amounts of money and have already been pre-approved by the bank. If such an incredible pre-approved loan is offered to you, ask yourself: "How is it possible for a bank to offer you such a large sum of money without even checking and analyzing your financial situation?" Though it may seem unlikely for people to get trapped by this scam, there's still a big number of people who lost money by paying the "mandatory" processing fees required by the scammers. Here are 9 warning signs and sneaky tactics to watch out and avoid becoming a business loan scam. As regards to credit card scams, a recent report from the Identity Theft Resources Center said that the number of credit and debit card breaches have been on the rise last year. To better safeguard your data and prevent thieves from getting access to your payment card details, consider:

Watching your accounts closely and monitor your online transactions;

Taking advantage of free consumer protection services;

Signing up for free credit monitoring.

5. Lottery scam

This is another classic Internet scam which doesn't seem to get old. A lottery scam comes as an email message informing you that you won a huge amount of money and, in order to claim your prize or winnings, you need to pay some small fees. Lucky you, right?! It doesn't even matter that you don't recall ever purchasing lottery tickets. Since it addresses some of our wildest fantasies, such as quitting our jobs and living off the fortune for the rest of our lives, without ever having to work again, our imagination falls prey easily to amazing scenarios someone can only dream of. But the dream ends as soon as you realize you have been just another scam victim. DO NOT fall for this online scam and have a look at this checklist to see if you are getting scammed. Source: Ripandscam.com

6. Hitman scam

One of the most frequent Internet scams you can meet online is the "hitman" extortion attempt. Cybercriminals will send you an email threatening to extort money from you. This type of online scam may come in various forms, such as the one threatening that they will kidnap a family member unless a ransom is paid in a time frame provided by the scammers. To create the appearance of real danger, the message is filled with details from the victim's life, collected from an online account, a personal blog or from a social network account. That's why it's not safe to provide any sensitive or personal information about you on social media channels. It might seem like a safe and private place, where you're only surrounded by friends, but in reality, you can never know for sure who's watching you. Also, it's better to be a little bit paranoid and protect all your digital assets like everyone is watching. Here's how a Hitman scam looks like:

7. Online dating (romance) scams

As the Internet plays an important role in our social lives, with apps like Facebook or Instagram we access every day, it's inevitable to use apps to look for love as well. Online dating apps are very popular these days and they are a great way to meet your future life partners. I have actually an example with a friend of mine who was lucky enough to find her future husband on a dating site. But not all scenarios have a "happy end" like this one, and you need to be very careful because you never know who can you meet.

A romance scam usually takes place on social dating networks, like Facebook, or by sending a simple email to the potential target, and affects thousands of victims from all over the world. The male scammers are often located in West Africa, while the female scammers are mostly from the eastern parts of Europe. Cybercriminals have abused this scamming method for years by using online dating services. They improved their approach just by testing the potential victims' reactions. According to published in the British Journal of Criminology last month, the techniques (and psychological methods) used by scammers in online romance scams are similar to those used in domestic violence cases. To avoid becoming a victim of these Internet scams, you need to learn how to better protect yourself.

Knowing that hundreds of women and men from all over the globe are victims of these online scams, we recommend using these security tips for defensive online dating, including warning signs that could help you from becoming an easy target. I would also recommend reading these real stories and learn from them, so you don't fall for these online scams:

8. Fake antivirus software

We all saw at least once this message on our screens: " You have been infected! Download antivirus X right now to protect your computer!" Many of these pop-ups were very well created to look like legitimate messages that you might get from Windows or any other security product. If you are lucky, there is nothing more than an innocent hoax that will bother you by displaying unwanted pop-ups on your screen while you browse online. In this case, to get rid of the annoying pop-ups, we recommend scanning your system using a good antivirus product.

If you are not so lucky, your system can end up getting infected with malware, such as a Trojan or a keylogger. This kind of message could also come from one of the most dangerous ransomware threats around, such as CryptoLocker, which is capable of blocking and encrypting your operating system and requesting you a sum of money in exchange for the decryption key. To avoid this situation, we recommend enhancing your online protection with a specialized security product against financial malware and complement your traditional antivirus program. Also, make sure you do not click on pop-up windows that annoyingly warn you've been infected with a virus. Remember to always apply the existing updates for your software products, and install only legitimate software programs from verified websites.

9. Facebook impersonation scam (hijacked profile scam)

Facebook. Everyone is talking about it these days and the scandal about Cambridge Analytica firm harvesting personal data taken from millions of this social media channel without users' consent. It's still the most popular social media network where everyone is active and uses it on a daily basis to keep in touch with friends and colleagues. Unfortunately, it has become also the perfect place for online scammers to find their victims.

Just imagine your account being hacked by a cybercriminal and gaining access to your close friends and family. Nobody wants that! Since it is so important for your privacy and online security, you should be very careful in protecting your personal online accounts just the way you protect your banking or email account. Facebook security wise, these tips might help you stay away from these online scams:

Do not accept friend requests from people you don't know

Do not share your password with others

When logging in, use two-factor authentication

Avoid connecting to public and free Wi-Fi networks

Keep your browser and apps updated

Add an additional layer of security and use proactive cybersecurity software.

To enhance your online privacy, I recommend reading our full guide on Facebook security and privacy.

10. Make money fast scams (Economic scams)

Cybercriminals will lure you into believing you can make money easy and fast on the internet. They'll promise you non-existent jobs, including plans and methods of getting rich quickly. It is a quite simple and effective approach, because it addresses a basic need for money, especially when someone is in a difficult financial situation. This scamming method is similar to the romance scam mentioned above, where the cyber attackers address the emotional side of victims.

The fraudulent posting of non-existent jobs for a variety of positions is part of the online criminals' arsenal. Using various job types, such as work-at-home scams, the victim is lured into giving away personal information and financial data with the promise of a well-paid job that will bring lots of money in a very short period of time. Read and apply these that can help you avoid some of the most common financial scams.

11. Travel scams

These scams are commonly used during hot summer months or before the short winter vacations, for Christmas or New Year's Day. Here's how it happens: you receive an email containing an amazing offer for an exceptional and hard to refuse destination (usually an exotic place) that expires in a short period of time which you can't miss. If it sounds too good to be true, it might look like a travel scam, so don't fall for it! The problem is that some of these offers actually hide some necessary costs until you pay for the initial offer. Others just take your money without sending you anywhere. In such cases, we suggest that you study carefully the travel offer and look for hidden costs, such as: airport taxes, tickets that you need to pay to access a local attraction, check if the meals are included or not, other local transportation fees between your airport and the hotel or between the hotel and the main attractions mentioned in the initial offer, etc. As a general rule, we suggest that you go with the trustworthy, well-known travel agencies. You can also check if by paying individually for plane tickets and for accommodation you receive the same results as in the received offer. If you love to travel, you can easily fall prey to airline scams by simply looking for free airline tickets. Airline scams are some of the most popular travel scams, and we recommend applying these valuable tips.

12. Bitcoin scams

If you (want to) invest in Bitcoin technology, we advise you to be aware of online scams. Digital wallets can be open to hacking and scammers take advantage of this new technology to steal sensitive data. Bitcoin transactions should be safe, but these five examples of Bitcoin scams show how they happen and how you can lose your money. The most common online scams to watch out for:

Fake Bitcoin exchanges

Ponzi schemes

Everyday scam attempts

Malware

Here's how you can spot a Bitcoin scam and how to stay safe online.

13. Fake news scam

The spread of fake news on the Internet is a danger to all of us because it has an impact on the way we filter all the information we found and read on social media. It's a serious problem that should concern our society, mostly for the misleading resources and content found online, making it impossible for people to distinguish between what's real and what is not. We recommend accessing/reading only reliable sources of information coming from friends or people you know read regular feeds from trusted sources: bloggers, industry experts, in order to avoid fake news. [Tweet "If it seems too good to be true, it's most likely a scam.

Take a look over these online scams"] This type of scam could come in the form of a trustworthy website you know and often visit, but being a fake one created by scammers with the main purpose to rip you off. It could be a spoofing attack which is also involved in fake news and refers to fake websites that might link you to a buy page for a specific product, where you can place an order using your credit card. To avoid becoming a victim of online scams, you can use tech tools such as from Google or Facebook's tool aimed at detecting whether a site is legitimate or not, analyzing its reputation and data. Cybersecurity experts believe that these Internet scams represent a threat for both organizations and employees, exposing and infecting their computers with potential malware.

14. Fake shopping websites

We all love shopping and it's easier and more convenient to do it on the Internet with a few clicks. But for your online safety, be cautious about the sites you visit. There are thousands of websites out there that provide false information and might redirect you to malicious links, giving hackers access to your most valuable data. If you spot a great online offer which is "too good to be true", you might be tempted to say "yes" instantly, but you need to learn how to spot a fake shopping siteso you don't get scammed. We strongly recommend reading these online shopping security tips to keep yourself safe from data breaches, phishing attacks or other online threats. Source: Originalo.de

15. Loyalty points phishing scam

Many websites have a loyalty program to reward their customers for making different purchases, by offering points or coupons. This is subject to another online scam because cybercriminals can target them and steal your sensitive data. If you think anyone wouldn't want to access them, think again. The most common attack is a phishing scam that looks like a real email coming from your loyalty program, but it's not. Malicious hackers are everywhere, and it takes only one click for malware to be installed on your PC and for hackers to have access to your data. As it might be difficult to detect these phishing scams, you may find useful this example of a current phishing campaign targets holders of Payback couponing cards, as well as some useful tips and tricks to avoid being phished.

Source: G Data Security Blog

16. Job offer scams

Sadly, there are scammers everywhere - even when you are looking for a job - posing as recruiters or employers. They use fake and "attractive" job opportunities to trick people. It starts with a phone call (or a direct message on LinkedIn) from someone claiming to be a recruiter from a well-known company who saw your CV and saying they are interested in hiring you. Whether you've applied or not, the offer might be very appealing, but don't fall into this trap. To protect yourself from job offer scams, it's very important to:

Do thorough research about the company and see what information you can find about it;

Check the person who's been contacted you on social media channels;

Ask for many details and references and check them out;

Ask your friends or trustworthy people if they know or interacted with the potential employer.

To avoid these types of online job scams, check this .

17. SMS Scamming (Smshing)

Smartphones. You can't live without them in the era of the Internet. They've become essential for communication, online shopping, banking or any other online activity. Needless to say the amount of data we store on our personal devices which make them vulnerable to cybercriminals, always prepared to steal our online identities or empty our bank accounts. Smishing (using SMS text messages) is a similar technique to phishing, but, instead of sending emails, malicious hackers send text messages to their potential victims. How does this happen? You receive an urgent text message on your smartphone with a link attached saying that it's from your bank and you need to access it in order to update your bank information or other online banking information. Be careful about these SMS you receive and don't click on suspicious links that could redirect to malicious sites trying to steal your valuable data. These useful tips can help you easily spot these types of online scams. Source: Malwarebytes Labs

18. Overpayment Online Scam

If you are considering selling different items on specialized online sites, we strongly recommend watching out for overpayment scam. A typically overpayment online scam like this works by getting the potential victim "to refund" the scammer an extra amount of money because he/she send too much money. The offer will often be quite generous and bigger than the agreed price. The overpay (extra money) is to cover the costs of shipping or certain custom fees. One such story can unfold right now and can happen to each of you. This happened to one of our Heimdal Security team members.

After smiling a bit and seeing the method, we did realize that's a common online scam and we had to share it with you. Also, we included a few security tips and actionable advice to prevent falling prey to overpayment online scam. Our colleague posted a sofa for sale on a Danish site called dba.dk which is a sort of a flea market online. After a few days, he received a message from a person claiming to be interested in the item and willing to pay more than the price offered, via PayPal account. Here's how a scam email looks like in which the malicious person asks for personal information to transfer the money.

Also, here's the confirmation email coming from the scammer which shows that he paid an extra amount for the sofa, including extra shipping fees and MoneyGram charges the extra fee for transportation.

After that, he also got another email saying that he needs to refund the extra amount of money, including the shipping and transportation charges to a certain shipping agent via MoneyGram transfer. Here's how the phishing email looks like that you should be very careful and don't fall for it:

Follow these security tips to protect yourself from overpayment online scams:

If you notice a suspicious email coming from an untrusted source or something out of ordinary, you should report it as soon as possible.

If you receive a similar email like the one our colleague got, do not transfer extra money to someone you don't know, especially if he/she wants to overpay. A legitimate buyer won't do that.

Also, do not transfer money to a fake shipping company or some private shipping agent, because it's part of a scam and you need to be very careful.

Do not provide personal information to people who don't show a genuine interest in buying your item.

Do not send the product to the buyer until the payment was completed and received in your bank account.

19. Tech Support Online Scams

Here's another online scam that is common and you need to be extra careful. The next time your smartphone rings and you don't know the number, think twice before answering. Maybe it's not your friend on the other end of the phone, maybe it's the scammer! According to a recent report "nearly half of all cellphone calls next year will come from scammers", so we need to learn how to better detect and prevent such malicious actions coming from skilled persons. Tech support scams are very common and widespread these days. Scammers use various social engineering techniques to trick potential victims into giving their sensitive information. Even worst, they try to convince potential victims to pay for unnecessary technical support services.

These tech "experts" pretend to know everything about your computer, how it got hacked and many other details that help them gain your trust and convince victims to fall prey to their scams. A scenario like this can happen as we write this, and one of our Heimdal Security team members recently got a phone scam call. While we got amused by the conversation he had with the person pretending to work for an Indian tech support company, we realized it can happen to anyone who can become an easy target.

What happened? The person, pretending to be the representative of a software company and experienced one, is informing our colleague that his computer got hacked by cybercriminals, and offers to guide him and solve this urgent problem. With poor English skills, he gives details about the serial number of the computer, and provides guidance to access the unique computer ID, trying to misrepresent a normal system as having serious issues. After a few minutes, the call is transferred to another tech representative who informs our colleague that they detected unusual activity going through his computer. He's been told that multiple attempts have been seen on the PC in which hackers tried to get unauthorized access to his computer. Our colleague detected this as being a scam and didn't go along with it, but for someone without technical knowledge, it may not be so easy to spot. You can listen to this call here:

https://heimdalsecurity.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/scam_call.mp3

If someone else would have fallen prey for this online scam, things would have gone even further. The so-called tech scammers could persuade the potential victim to give them remote access to the system. To "help" the victim, scammers mention about additional software that is required to be installed and victims need to pay for these software victims, hence, provide credit card details. You can find out more info here How to avoid getting scammed by tech support "specialists" To avoid becoming an easy target of these sneaky tech support scammers, we strongly recommend following these basic rules:

Do not trust phone calls coming from people pretending to come from tech "experts", especially if they are requesting for personal or financial information;

DO NOT PROVIDE sensitive data to them or purchase any software services scammers may suggest you as a solution to fix your tech problem.

DO NOT allow strangers to remotely access your computer and potentially install malicious software;

Make sure you download software apps and services only from official vendor sites;

Don't take it for granted when a stranger calls you out of the blue, pretending to have a technical solution for your issues. Make sure you ask for proof of their identity and do a quick research about the company they are calling you from;

Always have an antivirus program installed on your computer, and for more protection, consider adding multiple layers of security with a proactive security solution like Heimdal™ Premium Security Home, which will stop any type of online threats.

Have a security-first mindset and be suspicious about everything around you. Also, consider investing in education and learn as much as possible about cybersecurity. Here's how you can reduce spam phone calls.

Where can you report Online Scams and Frauds?

If you become a victim of an internet-related scam, you can report it to these government authorities:

1. Econsumer.gov - Report international frauds. A partnership of more than 40 consumer protection agencies around the world. Accepts complaints about online shopping and e-commerce transactions with foreign companies.

2. Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) - Report international frauds. Takes internet-related criminal complaints and forwards them to federal, state, local, and international law enforcement agencies.

3. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - US only. Consumer complaints and online scams are shared with all levels of law enforcement.

4. Europol - For Europe. Several European countries listed with direct links and emails where you can report online scams.

Conclusion

Since some scams are so well organized and really convincing, and people behind them so difficult to catch, we need to always keep our guard up. Stay informed about the latest scamming strategies.
Have you met some of the above scams while browsing or in your email inbox? What were the most convincing ones?

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Top Online Scams & Fraud Methods to be Aware of

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Here are the most popular online scams. Avoid losing your identity or money. An extensive list of 19 scamming methods with explicit examples.

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Many people panic when they feel they have lost their password or that there is unsuspected activity on their account, and these feelings can make you susceptible to account unlocking scams. Not only may a scammer compromise your account, but they may also pretend to be a Snapchat employee who is trying to help you. The red flags to watch out for in this type of scam are:

Contacting you to unlock your account

If someone initiates contact to help you unlock your account, don't respond.

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While social media sites like Snapchat are great for showcasing new products to consumers, there can also be product scams mixed in with the ads. In 2021, 45% of money lost in social media scams was due to online shopping, primarily where the product was paid for yet never delivered.[2]

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Cybercriminals love to use social media apps like Snapchat for investment scams The FTC reported that half of the investment scam losses reported in 2021 originated on social media.[2]

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There are reputable companies that conduct surveys and additionally offer compensation prizes for the completion of their surveys. Snapchat, in the course of its business model, may choose to eventually send a survey to you, but beware, scammers may mimic these “company surveys” to attempt to scam your personally identifiable information from you.

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Upon first hearing you have won a contest, you may feel elated, and that is what scammers count on! Slow down because it could be too good to be true, especially if you’re informed through a social media platform like Snapchat. In this type of scam, cybercriminals may pretend to be from a legitimate organization and ask for your personal details to award a prize to you.

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Scammers often make fake accounts and pose as celebrities on Snapchat to directly message you, asking you to send money for a charity or for some other reason. The “celebrity” could also send a link to a spoofed website that can fraudulently obtain your payment details.

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Discover tips and tricks, find answers to common questions, and get help!

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What are Snapchat Scams and How to Avoid Them - Infocenter

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What are Snapchat Scams and How to Avoid Them - Infocenter

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Snapchat is one of the most modern communication tools used today. The service is beloved because of its security and privacy, but the same protections that make the app great can also make it easier for others to scam without getting caught. Scammers fill up Snapchat for this reason, and if you use the communication tool, you will likely hear from some scammers that ask you for things you shouldn't give away. Learning to recognize these scams and how to protect yourself from them is essential.

What are Snapchat Scams?

Snapchat scams are specially coordinated attacks using Snapchat to convince people to give away money or information. There are many different types of scams to watch for, but each one follows a similar idea. These scams offer something you want, such as photos, companionship, money, or something else. The scams make the thing you want easily attainable, and they all ask you for money or information that you shouldn't give away.

How Do Snapchat Scams Work?

Snapchat scams work differently depending on the scam, but the general idea is that you'll either be messaged through Snapchat or you'll be messaged about Snapchat, and the scammer will try to convince you to enter your account information, your bank details or to send money to you for the reason that isn't true.

Most Common Snapchat Scams

There are dozens of different scams to be aware of, but there are a handful of options used more heavily than all the rest. We overview the most common scam types below so you can learn about them and avoid them carefully. Get to know these scams well, and you'll know what you should be avoiding.

Phishing Scam

Phishing scams are one of the most commonly used attacks for anyone on social media, including Snapchat. In these scams, an attacker sends an email that's meant to look like a legitimate Snapchat security warning. The email address is spoofed to have an official address, and the email is designed to look official. Inside the email, there will be a link for you to click. If you click the link, you'll be taken to a fake login form where your information will be stolen. The attacker will get your Snapchat account and can gather any information on it too.

Sugar Momma Scam

Many users looking for a sugar momma or sugar daddie get tricked by scammers on Snapchat doing the sugar momma scam. In this scam, users reach out to others on Snapchat, offering to pay money or provide gift cards in exchange for photos through Snapchat.

The scam part comes into play when it's time to send out the first payment for photos. The scammer says they are sending money or gift cards for the photos but says there are fees that need to be covered. They ask for a payment to cover those fees, which they will keep. Some scammers ask for personal financial information so they know where to send the money instead. The information is used to steal money from the account.

Meetup Scams

Meetup scams are a quick and easy way for some users to scam others out of money. The scam is usually good for $100 or a bit more. The person pretends to be a beautiful woman or a celebrity and then talks about meeting up with the person being scammed. The scammer needs a bit of money for gas or for other travel costs, and they ask you to pay the money for this. That money is then pocketed, and the scammer doesn't attempt to meet up.

Snapchat Premium Scams

remium scams on Snapchat take advantage of people hoping for adult photos from the other person. These scammers make a Premium Snapchat account and tell their victims they must make a payment to access your photos and videos; once they've paid, they never receive any photos or videos.

Money Scams

We would classify many of the common Snapchat scams as money scams. The main idea behind money scams is offering a quick and easy way to earn money but charging a fee to claim the information. These scammers ask for a small deposit to get your opportunity where you will earn much more money. If you're curious about individuals asking for money for an opportunity, you can do a username search and learn more about the individual to protect yourself.

How to Prevent Them

Before you're involved in a Snapchat scam, you should learn how to prevent this from ever happening. One of the most important things you should do is make a stronger password for your account. You should try and use something random that you don't share with any of your other applications or services. You should be careful never to share personal data over Snapchat or another social network. Be sure you don't overshare on social media to keep your information safe.

Don't click unfamiliar links that are sent to you on Snapchat or via text message, and don't agree to pay for any products or services from someone you don't know and trust.

Generally, if things seem too good to be true, or if you believe you are lucky and things are happening for you easily, you are likely being scammed and could lose money or your information.

There are many tools available to you to help you verify the person that you're talking to is legitimate. You can use this address lookup search tool to learn where a person lives based on their phone number. Use this tool to learn more about the people you're talking to and to spot liars before you trust them.

Don't give people money for anything, and be careful to protect your information to avoid any issues on Snapchat.

What to Do if You're Involved in a Snapchat Scam?

The first thing you should do if you're involved in a Snapchat scam is to change the password for your account to ensure other users don't get on your account. You should immediately contact the important financial institutions in your life and start monitoring your credit each month to make sure you aren't being taken advantage of. If anything changes on your credit, you'll know with one of those services. You should also think about changing any other passwords that match your Snapchat account. If attackers know your account password, any other accounts or services you use that have a matching password could be exposed and put you at risk.

Stay Safe When Using Snapchat

Snapchat has grown to be one of the largest social media platforms today, and it's a tool used by scammers every day now. If a scammer contacts you, you can use the tools at InfoTracer to verify their data. Either way, don't send them money, don't give away personal information, and you should be okay.

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What are Snapchat Scams and How to Avoid Them - Infocenter

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Snapchat scams are one of the common app scams out there. Keeping this in mind, it is better to be careful online and be able to spot a scammer from afar!

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The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre estimates that less than 5% of the total number of fraud victims report their experiences to law enforcement agencies. By reporting a scam, you provide law enforcement with the information they need to stop fraudsters and help prevent others from becoming victims. The…

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Lottery, sweepstakes, and giveaway scams

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Lottery, sweepstakes, and giveaway scams

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“Is this you in this photo/video?”, other link scams

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“Is this you in this photo/video?”, other link scams

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As technology continues to evolve, it offers new ways for people to connect. Sadly, it also presents new opportunities for scammers to commit fraud.

While not new, reports of verification code scams have increased in the past year. The scam preys on people using sites like Facebook marketplace or Craigslist to sell items or post information about a lost pet. The scammer's ultimate goal is to set-up a Google Voice account, which allows for web-based calling, linked to another person's cell phone number. By connecting someone else's information to the web-based calling platform, fraudsters can conceal their identity for future scams.

For example, you decide to post a couch for sale using Facebook marketplace. The scammer contacts you pretending to be interested in purchasing the sofa. They feign hesitation and request that you provide your cell phone number to verify your identity before moving forward with the purchase. After requesting your cell phone number, the scammer sends a verification code by text message and asks that you send them the code to prove your identity. Once the code is provided, the scammer goes on to create a Google Voice number linked to your cell phone number, often to be used for additional scams.

The most important way to protect yourself from this type of scam is to never share a verification code of any kind with others, especially with someone you connect with through an online platform like Craigslist or Facebook. In fact, it is important that you do not share any sensitive information on these platforms, as scammers might use additional information to access your accounts or open new accounts in your name. If someone requests a verification code from you, cease communication and report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission.

With the right precautions, it is possible to safely use these sites to buy, sell, or share information with an online community.

BACK TO RESOURCES

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Receive a random verification code? Be wary of this scam, especially if you have anything listed for sale online.

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Romance scams are deceitful schemes where scammers manipulate victims emotionally, often through online dating platforms.

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Cryptocurrency scams take many forms. Just as financial criminals will try to steal money from your bank account or put fraudulent charges on your credit card, crypto scammers will do anything to take your crypto. To protect your crypto assets, it helps to know when and how you're being targeted and what you can do if you suspect that a cryptocurrency or any communications related to it are a scam.

Key Takeaways

Types of Cryptocurrency Scams

Generally speaking, cryptocurrency scams fall into two categories:

1. Initiatives aiming to obtain access to a target's digital wallet or authentication credentials. This means scammers try to get information that gives them access to a digital wallet or other types of private information, such as security codes. In some cases, it can include access to physical hardware, such as a computer or smartphone.

2. Schemes that involve transferring your cryptocurrency directly to a scammer, prompted by impersonation, fraudulent investment or business opportunities, or other malicious means, are popular scams.

Social Engineering Fraud

For social engineering scams, the perpetrators use psychological manipulation and deceit to gain control of vital information relating to user accounts. Successful scammers condition people to think they are dealing with a trusted entity, such as a government agency, a well-known business, tech support, a community member, a work colleague, or a friend.

Scammers will take as much time as they need to gain the trust of a potential victim. Then they may eventually ask the individual to reveal private keys or send money to their digital wallet. When one of these "trusted" entities demands cryptocurrency for any reason, it is a sign of something amiss-a scam.

Frauds Promising Romance

Scammers often use dating websites to make unsuspecting individuals believe they are in a real relationship, whether a new or long-term one. Once the individual trusts the scammer, conversations often shift to supposedly lucrative cryptocurrency opportunities and the eventual transfer of either coins or account-authentication credentials.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) found that in 2022, nearly 20% of the money reported lost in romance scams was in cryptocurrency. Fraud schemes, in general, promising romance rank No. 1 among all money scams, according to the FTC, with the median amount swindled being $4,400 and the total reaching $1.3 billion.

Imposter and Giveaway Scams

Moving down the sphere of influence, scammers also try to pose as celebrities, businesspeople, or cryptocurrency influencers. To capture the attention of potential targets, many scammers promise to match or multiply the cryptocurrency sent to them in what is known as a "giveaway scam."

Well-crafted messaging from what often looks like an existing social media account often can create and spark a sense of validity and urgency. This mythical "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity can lead people to transfer funds quickly in hopes of receiving an instant return. Impersonators claiming to be from the cryptocurrency exchange's support or security teams also contact crypto owners to trick them out of funds.

Within the cryptocurrency industry, phishing scams target information about some of the best crypto software wallets. Specifically, scammers need a crypto wallet's private keys-a string of letters and numbers that act like a password and are required to access cryptocurrency.

Their method follows the playbook of many standard scams: They send an email with links that lead holders to a specially created website and ask them to enter private keys. Once the hackers have this information, they steal the victim's cryptocurrency.

Blackmail and Extortion Schemes

Blackmail is another popular social engineering method scammers use. Blackmailers make the claim to potential victims that they have a record of adult websites or other illicit web pages the user frequents. The blackmailers then threaten to expose the individuals unless they share with them their private keys or cryptocurrency. Such cases represent a criminal extortion attempt and should be reported to an enforcement agency, such as the FBI.

Fraud Involving Investment or Business Opportunities

The adage "if something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is" is one to keep in mind for anyone venturing into investing in general. It is especially true for cryptocurrencies. Countless profit-seeking speculators turn to misleading websites offering "guaranteed returns" or other setups for which investors must invest large sums of money for even larger guaranteed returns. Unfortunately, these bogus guarantees often lead to financial disaster when individuals find that they can't get their money back.

New Crypto-Based Opportunities: ICOs and NFTs

Crypto-based investments, such as initial coin offerings (ICOs) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), provide even more avenues for scammers to access your money. Remember that although the crypto-based investments or business opportunities may sound lucrative, it doesn't always reflect reality.

For example, some scammers create fake websites for ICOs and instruct users to deposit cryptocurrency into a compromised digital wallet. In other instances, the ICO itself may be at fault. Founders could distribute tokens, which are unregulated, or mislead investors about their products through false advertising.

A so-called rug pull occurs when project members raise capital or crypto to fund a project and then suddenly remove all the liquidity-and they themselves disappear and become unreachable. Scammers abandon the project, and investors lose all they have contributed.

Cloud Mining

Platforms will market to retail buyers and investors to get them to contribute upfront capital to secure an ongoing stream of mining power and rewards. These platforms don't own the hash rate they claim to, and don't deliver the rewards after receiving your down payment. While cloud mining isn't necessarily a scam, to keep you money, you must conduct rigorous due diligence on the platform before investing.

How To Spot Cryptocurrency Scams

Cryptocurrency scams are easy to spot when you know what to look for. Legitimate cryptocurrencies have readily available disclosure, with detailed information about the blockchain and associated tokens.

Read the White Paper

Cryptocurrencies go through a development process. Before this process, there is generally a document published, called a white paper, for the public to read. If it's a legitimate white paper, it clearly describes the protocols and blockchain, outlines the formulas, and explains how the entire network functions. Fake cryptocurrencies don't produce thoroughly written and researched white papers. The fakes are poorly written, with figures that don't add up, and they don't explain how they envision the money raised being used.

Identify Team Members

White papers should always spotlight the members and developers behind the cryptocurrency. There are cases in which an open-source crypto project might not have named developers, which is typical for an open source. Still, you can view most coding, comments, and discussions on GitHub or GitLab. Some projects use forums and applications, like Discord, for discussion. If you can't find any of these elements, and the white paper is rife with errors, then stand down, it's likely a scam.

Beware of 'Free' Items

Many cryptocurrency scams offer free coins or promise to "drop" coins into your wallet. Remind yourself that nothing is ever free, especially money and cryptocurrencies.

Scrutinize the Marketing

Owning cryptocurrencies is generally not a money-making endeavor. They are projects with a stated purpose and have coins or tokens designed to be used to promote the blockchain function. Valid crypto projects won't be posting on social media or pumping themselves up as the next best crypto.

You might see cryptocurrency updates about blockchain developments or new security measures taken, but you should be wary of updates like "millions raised" or communications that appear to be more about money than about advances in the technology behind the crypto.

Legitimate businesses exist that use blockchain technology to provide services. They might have tokens used within their blockchains to pay transaction fees, but the advertising and marketing should appear professional-looking. Scammers also spend on celebrity endorsements and appearances and have all the information readily available on their websites. Legitimate businesses won't ask everyone to buy their crypto; they will advertise their blockchain-based services.

How To Avoid Scams

There are several actions to take to steer clear of being scammed. If you notice any of the signs, don't click on the links, dial a phone number, contact them, or send them money. Also:

Ignore requests to give out your private cryptocurrency keys. Those keys control your crypto and wallet access, and no one needs them for a legitimate cryptocurrency transaction.

Shun enterprises that promise you'll make lots of money.

Don't engage with investment managers who contact you and say they can grow your money quickly.

Be wary of "celebrities" contacting you. A real celebrity won't reach out to you about buying cryptocurrency.

Meet in person any romantic interests you connected with on an online dating website or app. Don't give them money.

Ignore text messages and emails from well-known or new companies, saying your account is frozen or that they are worried about it and can help you "unfreeze" it.

Contact a regulatory agency if you receive an email, text, or social media message claiming to be from a government, law enforcement agency, or utility company, stating that your accounts or assets are frozen. Don't answer the initial correspondence through their means of communication. Instead get details on how to connect from an agency's official website.

Ignore job listings for cash-to-crypto converter or crypto miner openings.

Scrutinize claims about explicit material a scammer may say they have about you that they threaten to post unless you send cryptocurrency. This is blackmail. Report it.

Don't accept "free" money or crypto.

How To Report Scams

Several organizations can help you if you're a victim of a cryptocurrency scam or suspect one. Use their online complaint forms to seek help:

You also can directly contact the crypto exchange that you use. Find out if they offer fraud prevention or have other measures in place to protect your crypto assets and money.

What Are Common Cryptocurrency Scams?

They include so-called rug pulls, promises of romance, phishing, and investment schemes.

Can You Get Scammed If Someone Sends You Crypto?

Yes. Never accept transactions from any person or organization you're unfamiliar with. The only way someone can steal your crypto is if you give it to them in a scam that could include your giving them access to your private keys, or their hacking your digital wallet and stealing your keys.

How Do You Avoid Getting Scammed When Dealing With Crypto?

The best way is to stay up-to-date on scammers' techniques and to remain alert. Know the signs of the scams, and secure your keys offline, outside your wallet, in cold storage. Also known as a cold wallet, this type of digital wallet is stored on a platform not connected to the internet, thereby protecting it from unauthorized access, cyber hacks, and other vulnerabilities that a system connected to the internet is susceptible to.

The Bottom Line

For many people, the mad rush into cryptocurrencies has evoked a sense of the Wild West, when limitless possibilities for enriching themselves was possible. Yet, anyone who's studied the Wild West era knows that many speculators lost it all while trying to get rich.

As the crypto ecosystem gains scale and complexity, it will undoubtedly remain a focal point for scammers. Crypto scams generally fall into two categories: socially engineered initiatives to obtain account or security information, and efforts to persuade a target to send cryptocurrency to a compromised digital wallet. By understanding the common ways that scammers try to steal your information (and ultimately your money), you can know how to spot a crypto-related scam early and prevent it from happening to you.

Investing in cryptocurrencies and other initial coin offerings (ICOs) is highly risky and speculative, and this article is not a recommendation by Investopedia or the writer to invest in cryptocurrencies or other ICOs. Because each individual's situation is unique, a qualified professional should always be consulted before making any financial decisions. Investopedia makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy or timeliness of the information contained herein.

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Cryptocurrency Scams: How To Spot, Report, and Avoid Them

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Due to the rise in reported crypto scams, being aware of common types and ways to protect yourself from them is more important than ever.

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Scamfish - A Consumer Protection Publication - SocialCatfish.com

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Have you ever gotten a random friend request from someone you didn't know? Did someone follow you on Instagram randomly and are now persistent in messaging you and getting to know you? Scammers are flooding social media platforms at lightning speed rates, trying to scam anyone they can out of their hard-earned money. Many of these scammers use other people's profits as their income to live and will do whatever it takes to make their salary. They create fake profiles using stolen images from social media influencers, and many people believe that these profiles are real. So how can you tell it's a social media scam? Keep scrolling to find out how to avoid social media scams.

Tips on How to Avoid Social Media Scams

Tip #1: Avoid Forming an Online Relationship with Someone You Don't Know

Have you ever gotten a random message from someone asking if they could be your friend because of how gorgeous you are? This is a typical sign of a romance scammer. They will make you feel special by claiming that you are the most gorgeous person they have ever seen. However, they have also told 99 victims before you that as well.

They do this so that they can build a fake relationship with you and gain your trust so that you would want to help them with anything they need. Then, they will claim that they have an emergency in which they need money from you. Once you send them the money, it is nearly impossible to get it back. This is why it is just best to stay away from people you don't know online.

Tip #2: Don't Send Anyone Your Personal or Financial Information Online

Did one of your friends message you claiming they need money, even though you barely message them at all? This is due to scammers hacking their social media account and asking random people on their friend's list for money. They also create fake profiles and claim that they love you or have an investment opportunity in order to trick you out of your funds. Even though the majority of them ask for money, there are also scammers that ask people for their personal information.

They can take this information and commit identity fraud with it by opening up credit cards, accessing your bank account, or finding any hidden funds you might have. All they need is information as simple as a security question answer, a birthday, a phone number, or a social security number in order to access these confidential details. This is why it is important to keep any personal information to yourself.

Tip #3: Block Anyone That Asks You to Invest in Their Investment Opportunity

Anyone that claims that you can make your money back guaranteed in an investment opportunity is trying to scam you. Actual investment opportunities have a high risk and there is no guarantee that you will get your money back. However, with investment scams, they will claim that all you need to do is put some money in and make triple back guaranteed without any risks.

Once you put the money in, scammers will steal it and give you nothing in return. They will usually ask you to send them payments through gift cards, wire transfers, or Bitcoin so that your payment will be untraceable and it would be nearly impossible to get your money back.

Tip #4: Avoid Any Phishing Links That Slide Into Your DM's or Show Up on Your News Feed

If you have noticed any random links sliding into your DM's or popping up on your News Feed, avoid them at all costs. These random links can range from a fake online store to a fake online form, claiming that you won something. Once you click on the links, most of the time they will download malware without you even realizing it. Then, the websites will come up with excuses as to why they need your personal and/or financial information.

Sometimes, it will claim that you need to purchase the item you want, and other times it will claim that it needs your information because you won a contest. No matter what the reason is, it's just an excuse for scammers to get your hands on your money and personal information. They can then drain your bank account and commit identity theft with it.

Tip #5: Perform a Reverse Search with Social Catfish!

At Social Catfish, we want to help you verify the identities of those who might seem suspicious to you. If you have their name, email address, phone number, social media username, or image, you can reverse search and see who the suspected person was that you've been in contact with if you are wondering how to avoid social media scams. If you have ever been a victim of a scam, report it to the FTC for more resources on how to recover after you've been scammed.

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Have you ever gotten a random friend request from someone you didn't know? Did someone follow you on Instagram randomly and are now persistent in messaging you and getting to know you? Scammers are flooding social media platforms at lightning speed rates, trying to scam anyone they can out of their hard-earned money.

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How to Deal With Sextortion on Instagram

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What is Instagram Sextortion?

In sextortion, the scammer convinces the victim to share explicit photos, and then threatens to expose those photos to the victim’s social media contacts.

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If you have been the victim of Instagram sextortion, you know firsthand how terrifying and isolating the experience can be.

That is why it is essential to know what to do if you are the target of sextortion on Instagram. We recommend taking the following actions immediately:

1. Do not panic,

2. Stop engaging with the perpetrator immediately,

3. Preserve all evidence of communication from the sextortionist,

4. Set all of your social media profiles to private,

5. Report the harassment to Instagram by reporting the perpetrator's profile and/or posts or messages for Terms of Service (ToS) violations,

6. Report the harassment to national or local cybercrime agencies such as the FBI, INTERPOL, or the Internet Crimes Center (IC3).

7. Monitor your online footprint for subsequent attacks or sensitive content about you, and

8. Reach out to an experienced sextortion attorney.

At Minc Law, we have years of experience helping our clients handle sensitive issues like being the victim of a sextortion attempt. We are adept at identifying online harassers, reporting the harassment to the proper channels, and putting an end to the attacks quickly and discreetly. We make it our priority to take the burden of communicating with the sextortionist out of your hands and create an effective strategy for response.

In this article, we explain how to spot sextortion schemes on Instagram. We also demonstrate how to report a sextortion attempt to the platform, and we discuss the legal options that are available to you if you are the victim of Instagram sextortion.

How to Recognize Sextortion Schemes on Instagram

Sextortion is the term for scams in which the offender lures or coerces their victim into sending explicit images, videos, or other media of themselves. The sextortionist then uses those explicit images to extort money from the victim or otherwise blackmail them.

Sextortion may also be referred to as:

The primary difference between sextortion and other forms of extortion is that a sextortionist threatens to reveal intimate images or videos if their demands are not met.

What is Instagram Sextortion?

As its name suggests, Instagram sextortion is sextortion that takes place (at least in part) over Instagram. Instagram is a popular medium for sextortion due to the following factors:

The platform is primarily an image- and video-based medium;

It is relatively easy for scammers to create multiple, anonymous Instagram accounts; and

Instagram is popular for younger users between the ages of 15 and 30.

In our experience at Minc Law, most sextortionists live overseas. We find that sextortionists most commonly operate out of Côte d'Ivoire (The Ivory Coast), the Philippines, and Morocco.
Instagram sextortion typically looks something like this:
One day, you log into your Instagram account and see a new follow request. It is someone young and attractive, with a respectable number of followers. You do not know them, but you are curious-so you accept the request.

The individual messages you shortly thereafter, flirting and trying to get to know you. One thing leads to another, and before you know it, you agree to exchange intimate photos with them. The second you do, everything changes.

The next message you receive from the individual instructs you to send them hundreds or thousands of dollars. If you do not, the individual tells you they will release your photos to everyone you know.

Since many sextortionists operate internationally and frequently send their threatening messages from public internet cafes, they believe they are protected from any consequences. They often use their anonymity to target as many victims as they can, hoping one of them will fall prey to the sextortionist's schemes.

To better spot overseas sextortion scams, we recommend reading our comprehensive guide explaining what to do if you are the target of a Philippines sextortion scam.

How Common is Sextortion on Instagram?

Unfortunately, sextortion is a too-frequent occurrence across all social media and dating websites. While there is no Instagram-specific number available, the FBI estimates that there were more than 18,000 sextortion-related complaints to the Internet Crime Complaint Center last year, with losses of more than $13.6 million.

How to Spot Instagram Sextortion

Identifying a potential sextortionist on Instagram can be tricky, but there are a few telltale signs for which you can be on the lookout. We discuss a few of the most common red flags of sextortion scams below.

If They Seem Too Good to Be True, They Are

If an attractive individual that you do not know messages you randomly, it could be a sign that the individual is trying to scam you.

Consider conducting reverse image searches for the profile photo or any other photos they post. In many of our Instagram sextortion cases, the scammer uses photos that they stole from models or other Instagram accounts.

No Common Instagram Followers

If an unfamiliar user sends you a follow request, check to see whether you have any friends in common. If you do not have any common followers, their motives for sending you a follow request may be suspect.

Their Messages Seem to Be Translated From Another Language

Many online sextortionists-though not all-are based outside of the U.S. and do not speak English fluently. If their messages are difficult to understand or seem to be translated or scripted, that could indicate you are dealing with a scammer.

Their Messages Are Overtly Sexual or Flirty From the Start

The hallmark of sextortion schemes is that the individuals ask to engage in sexual messages or intimate image exchanges. If their messages are flirty or sexual within a matter of hours, that is a good indication that they may be seeking to scam you.

They Try to Move Your Conversation from Instagram to Another App

It is common for sextortionists to suggest moving a conversation from Instagram to an app like Skype or WhatsApp. The sextortionist may feel more protected because of these apps' assurances of end-to-end encryption.

It is common for sextortionists to suggest a video call, promising to expose themselves if you do as well. It is not until after this video call that they inform you they recorded you. They will then threaten to release the video unless you send them money.

What to Do If You Are the Victim of Sextortion on Instagram

Being targeted and harassed by online sextortionists can be overwhelming and stressful. In these situations, it is difficult to know how to proceed. Below, we cover several steps you can take to protect yourself, mitigate the damage, and respond to the sextortion attempt effectively.

What Should You Avoid If You Are the Victim of Sextortion on Instagram?

First, it is important to know what NOT to do if you are being harassed by a sextortionist. Avoid the following:

Panicking,

Paying the perpetrator,

Engaging further with the sextortionist, and

Trying to "get ahead of the story."

1. Avoid Panicking

If you are a victim of sextortion on Instagram, resist the urge to panic and act rashly. These scammers anticipate that your fear will cause you to swiftly give in to their demands. It is an essential part of why these scams can be so effective.

2. Avoid Paying the Perpetrator

Although it may feel like you have no choice but to give in to their demands, do not pay the ransom. The scammer will try to threaten and pressure you-but remember: giving in to their demands shows them that they can manipulate you.

Paying a sextortionist usually does not make them go away. Instead, they will only be emboldened to ask for more money.

Watch this informative video to learn how to protect yourself from sextortion. Discover valuable tips and strategies to safeguard your personal information and respond to online blackmail.

3. Avoid Engaging With the Perpetrator Further

The more you engage with the sextortionist, the more they will harass you. Although it feels counterintuitive, do not reply to their threatening messages.

4. Avoid Disclosing Information Unnecessarily

Once a sextortionist threatens to release compromising images of you to your friends and family, it is tempting to "get ahead of the story" by informing your closest acquaintances of what might come out about you.

But in many cases, you may be able to solve the situation before the sextortionist releases the images-especially if you obtain the help of an attorney. So it is best to avoid sharing any embarrassing information about how you ended up in this position until it is absolutely necessary.

For further information, we recommend reading our comprehensive guide tackling a common question we receive, ' Do sextortionists follow through?'

What Steps Should You Take If You Are the Target of Instagram Sextortion?

In this section, we cover the non-legal steps you can take if you are a victim of sextortion on Instagram. These steps include documenting evidence, protecting your social media privacy, reporting the harassment to Instagram, and monitoring your online presence.

1. Preserve All Evidence of the Sextortion Attempt

First, document all of your communication with the sextortionist. This documentation includes screenshots of the messages, pictures of their Instagram profile, and any other evidence you feel is important to the situation.

If you decide to report the incident or retain an attorney to help you resolve the situation, evidence will be crucial.

2. Set All of Your Social Accounts to Private

Next, it is imperative that you secure all of your online accounts-not just your Instagram profile. Visit all of your social media accounts and set the privacy settings to the highest level.

To set your Instagram account to private, navigate to your profile and click the three bars at the top right of the screen. Click Settings.

Click Privacy.

From this page, you can adjust your privacy settings. Make sure ' Private Account' is toggled on. You can also choose to limit who can see and comment on your posts, message you, and mention you.

3. Report the Harassment to Instagram

If you are the victim of a sextortion attempt on Instagram, you should report the incident to the social media platform for Terms of Service violations. We explain the reporting procedures in greater detail below.

4. Monitor Your Online Search Results & Social Mentions

If a scammer has targeted you for sextortion, they may not stop at Instagram. It is crucial to monitor your online reputation across platforms for subsequent postings.

For example, you can set up a Google Alert for your name or a keyword you would like to follow. Once you set up the alert, Google will send you an email each time your chosen word or phrase is mentioned in search results.

5. Consult an Experienced Sextortion Attorney

Sextortion is a serious crime, and it is a good idea to have a lawyer who is experienced in internet extortion on your side. They will be able to evaluate your legal options and address the sextortionist if you continue to experience harassment.

Reporting Sextortion on Instagram

Being on the receiving end of a sextortion attempt can be overwhelming and embarrassing. It can be difficult to know where to turn-and many victims are hesitant to report sextortion or reach out for help because they fear being judged or blamed for their situation.

But if you are a victim of sextortion, do not let this feeling overcome you. The first step is to push back against the scammer by reporting the incident to the platform where the sextortion attempt took place.

What Information Do You Need to Report Sextortion on Instagram?

Before you report the incident to Instagram, be sure you have the following information:

The Instagram account URL and profile photo of the sextortionist;

A list of any user handles, screen names, or email addresses the scammer is using;

Screenshots of any images the sextortionist sent you; and

Any relevant contact information you have for the perpetrator.

Keep in mind that when attempting to seek consequences for a sextortionist, the more data points you can provide, the more effective your report will be. And of course, comprehensive information can help local police, law enforcement, and your attorney seek consequences for the scammer as well.

How Can You Report Sextortion on Instagram?

While social media has many benefits, including letting users connect and explore a greater online community, it also has a dark side. Social media is a breeding ground for bullying, harassment, and defamation.

In response, Instagram and its parent company, Meta, work to keep the platform safe for users. Accounts or posts created with the sole intention of bullying or harassing another user violate Instagram's Community Guidelines.

According to Instagram's help center, you can report an Instagram post that contains harmful content, including spam, nudity, hate speech, and bullying or harassment. Keep in mind that when you report a harmful post to Instagram, you are anonymous-the perpetrator will not see who reported them.

There are two key ways to report sextortion on Instagram:

Reporting the profile, and

Reporting specific messages and/or posts.

We explain how to make both types of reports below.

How to Report an Account on Instagram

If you are experiencing harassment from another Instagram user, you can report the profile by clicking or tapping their username from their feed or story post. Alternatively, you can search for their username and navigate to their profile.

Once you are on their profile, click or tap the three dots at the top of their profile. Click or tap Report, then follow the instructions to add relevant information about the account you wish to report.

How to Report a Message or Post on Instagram

If you would rather report a single post, navigate to the post in question and tap the three dots at the top right. Click Report and follow the on-screen instructions.

Similarly, to report a private message on Instagram, tap and hold the message until the reaction menu bar appears. Tap Report and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your report.

Reporting Instagram Sextortion to Various Cybercrime Agencies

If you are a victim of sextortion on Instagram, you may also wish to report the incident to one or more of the agencies that handle cybercrime at a national or local level. These agencies include:

Your local law enforcement,

Your local Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Field Office,

Internet Crimes Complaint Center (IC3),

INTERPOL, and

National Center For Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

You can also report sextortion scams to your email provider. You can identify the service provider to report the scam to by checking the domain name of the scammer's email address ("Gmail.com", "Yahoo.com", "Outlook.com) and then flagging the sextortion emails via specific reporting procedures.

How Does Instagram Handle Sextortion Complaints?

After they receive a report about a piece of content on Instagram, the review team will determine whether the content violates Instagram's Community Guidelines. If it does, the team will hide or remove the content from Instagram.

Once you have reported a post or profile to Instagram, you can check the status of your report by navigating to your profile and tapping the three bars in the top right of the page. Tap Settings.

Next, tap Help.

Tap Support Requests to view the reports you have submitted. Keep in mind, however, that not every report you make is viewable on this page.

How to Avoid & Combat Sextortion on Instagram

Sextortion is easy to spot once you have become a victim. But identifying the signs before the sextortionist has lulled you into a compromising position is a bit more difficult-unless you know what to look for.

Below, we show you how to protect yourself from sextortion before it happens.

What Steps Should You Take to Protect Yourself From Sextortion on Instagram?

We recommend following these tips to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of Instagram sextortion:

Do Not Engage With Strangers Online While in a Vulnerable State

The internet is much like a minefield, which is why you need all of your wits about you when interacting with others online.

If you are in an emotional frame of mind-if you are going through a breakup, for instance, or even if you have just had a few drinks-it is best to avoid getting into conversations with strangers.

Be Cautious of New Online Connections

Anytime an individual that you do not recognize sends you a friend request, you should start from a place of skepticism. Do not simply accept the request; instead, examine their profile for red flags such as:

You have no friends in common,

Their profile is very new and/or has very few followers,

Their profile picture is a stock photo or is stolen from another user's account (you can check this by conducting a reverse image search), or

Their profile bio is empty, full of emojis, or nonsensical.

Avoid Invitations to Move the Conversation to a Different Platform

Meeting new friends can be exciting, and it is understandable to want to keep the conversation going in an easier medium.

But if your brand-new "friend" quickly invites you to move to a more private platform like WhatsApp, Skype, or Facetime (or even a private phone call), this should be a red flag. They may wish to record your conversation for extortion purposes.

Do Not Send Intimate Images of Yourself to Strangers Online

The best way to protect yourself is to avoid playing into the ultimate goal of a sextortion scheme, which is to obtain and use your nude photographs or videos to blackmail you. Do not send nude photos, sexual messages, or any personal information to a stranger online.

Even if you feel safe because they offer to send you photos of them, do not send them your photos. They are likely using photos stolen from porn sites to give you this false sense of security.

Trust Your Gut

If you suspect an account is trying to scam you, stop messaging them. Do not try to trick them or turn the tables on them.

Simply block the account and do not respond to any further messages they send you.

What Legal Services Can Do to Stop Sextortion on Instagram

If you are the victim of Instagram sextortion, it is important to act quickly to mitigate the damage. Sextortion is a crime and a violation of your rights-and an experienced attorney can help. Many legal professionals offer free consultations, so you may be able to receive initial guidance about your situation at no cost.

It may also be a good idea to report the crime to your local authorities and the FBI to prevent the same perpetrator from harassing other victims.

How to Find Trustworthy Attorneys to Help Stop Sextortion on Instagram

If you are looking for a reliable sextortion attorney, there are a few methods you can use to narrow down your search. We recommend starting by:

Checking with your local bar association,

Asking friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations;

Searching legal databases like Lawyers.com, Avvo, and Martindale-Hubbel; and

Running a Google search with keywords like "online sextortion lawyer + [your state]".

Once you have found a potential attorney, examine their website to ensure they specialize in reputation management and online harassment issues. There are many branches of law, so make sure they appear to be well-versed in your specific legal needs.

Also, check the content on their site. Do they have knowledgeable guidance in dealing with online sextortion? The articles and resources they provide should demonstrate that they have years of personal experience handling sextortion cases and that they can advise you on the best practices, risks, and costs involved in your matter.

What Are Your Legal Options For Preventing Sextortion on Instagram?

If you are the victim of a sextortion attempt on Instagram, your options generally fall into two categories: content removal and other legal remedies.

Utilize Content Removal Services

Sextortion and other blackmail or extortion-related activity is a crime in almost every country in the world. Aside from legal penalties related to the extortion, intimate videos, photographs, or other media of you that are published without your consent are unlawful.

If the sextortionist follows through on their threats, there are options available to have the content removed from most platforms, including Instagram. If you report the content to Instagram, they will usually remove the content.

Pursue Legal Action & Remedies

It is important to consult an attorney experienced in handling sextortion matters when evaluating your legal options.

At Minc Law, our attorneys can evaluate your legal rights and advise you on the best strategy to deal with your sextortion case-whether that be by assisting you in:

Identifying the anonymous sextortionist,

Removing any posted content,

Taking control of the communication with the perpetrator, or

Monitoring the internet for the posted content.

An experienced internet attorney can also provide objective advice and provide support and reassurance during this distressing experience.

Additional Resources if You Are the Target of Instagram Sextortion

If you have been targeted by a sextortionist on Instagram or elsewhere online, the following resources may be helpful to you in receiving support and sextortion help in dealing with the perpetrator:

Without My Consent (WMC): Information for victims, advocates, attorneys, and law enforcement regarding digital privacy and free speech;

Thinkuknow: A U.K.-based organization informing readers on how to protect children from online harassment;

Samaritans: A judgment-free call line for those experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm;

Crash Override: An advocacy group, crisis helpline, and resource center for victims of online abuse;

Attorney General's Cyber Exploitation Task Force: A resource created by the California Department of Justice that contains resources for both law enforcement and victims of cyber exploitation;

Get Safe Online: Information on online safety, including while banking, shopping, and using social media platforms;

HeartMob: A support network for online harassment victims;

Revenge Porn Helpline: A U.K.-based service that provides support and content removal services for adult victims of revenge porn;

Cyber Civil Rights Initiative: A resource and crisis helpline for cyber harassment victims; and

PAPYRUS- A U.K.-based call line for those experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

We Can Help You Navigate Sextortion Scams on Instagram & Social Media

If you are the target of sextortion on Instagram, you may feel stressed and unsure of what to do next. At Minc Law, we have extensive experience combating internet sextortion and online harassment on popular social platforms and apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

We can help take control of the conversation, provide objective advice on how to proceed, and in some cases, prevent the release of intimate images. In cases where intimate images and media are posted to the internet by the perpetrator, we can help remove it - all without drawing unwanted attention to the matter.

★★★★★
"Michele Simonelli recently helped me with an sextortion case. Due to the escalating nature of the situation, she promptly moved a previously scheduled meeting forward, and took immediate action to help mitigate the threat. As anyone facing these type situations knows, it's extraordinarily agonizing, and one cannot even think logically. Michele was reassuring, and extremely responsive to my texts and phone calls, and also appeared non-judgemental. There's no way to know the outcome had I not used her services, however, the backing of her and the firm gave me enough confidence/hope to get through the situation, with what appears to be a successful outcome. Thank you Michele for your professionalism, responsiveness and kindness! I highly recommend this firm and particularly Michele."

We offer paid sextortion consultations with a Minc Law attorney for $500. To schedule your sextortion consultation, call us at (216) 373-7706, speak with a chat representative, or fill out our online contact form.

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How to Deal With Sextortion on Instagram

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How to Deal With Sextortion on Instagram - Minc LawTo deal with Instagram sextortion, cease engaging with the perpetrator, preserve all evidence, and report the profile, posts, or messages to Instagram.

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For many, Instagram is the go-to app for entertainment and connecting with others. Whether you use it to keep up with your college friends or to kill time watching cat videos, the app has it all.

Unfortunately, Instagram has more than just eye-catching pictures and entertaining videos. In fact, cybercriminals are instead using the app to trick people online, using different types of scams.

So, you may be wondering, "What kind of scams are on Instagram?" To help answer this question, we've compiled a list of the 12 most common Instagram scams to know, including:

To learn more about each of these Instagram scams and how to spot, report, and avoid them, continue reading this comprehensive guide.

12 types of Instagram scams

Since Instagram was founded in 2010, mobile scammers have come up with numerous ways to trick its users. From seemingly lucrative investment opportunities to fake job offers, there are many ways a scammer may appear in your direct messaging inbox. Here are a dozen known Instagram scams to avoid today.

1. Influencer scams

On Instagram, not all influencers are created equal. While there are plenty of legitimate influencers on the app, some of them are fake accounts designed to deceive you.
Characteristics of Instagram influencer scams include:
In some cases, it's possible that the account was once real and has been hijacked by scammers on Instagram to fool others.

2. Phishing scams

In a phishing scam, you may receive a pressing direct message (DM) or email prompting you to take action before your Instagram account is "suspended." In the message, a scammer will pose as an official Instagram customer service account and try to convince you that your account is in danger.
Common traits of a phishing scam include:
By engaging with an Instagram phishing message, it may allow them to take over your account, steal your data, or blackmail you for money. To avoid this, it's important to never give up any information to an account you're unsure about. And remember, Instagram will never DM you about your account, and you can view official Instagram emails in your Settings.

3. Fake job scams

With many people losing their jobs during the pandemic, scammers looked to take advantage of the situation by promoting fake job postings on Instagram.
Fake job scams often feature:
Once you've given the so-called recruiter your information, they may use it to steal your identity, drain your financial accounts, or take over your Instagram profile.

4. Music promotion scams

If you share music on Instagram, you may be subject to music promotion scams. Compared to other scams, music promotion scams are much more specific and may only apply to musicians.
Characteristics of a music promotion scam include:
In some cases, these accounts will have a high number of followers, views, and likes. While it may seem like thousands of people are hearing your music, they are usually bot accounts, and the Instagram views will not translate into new listeners on streaming platforms.

5. Sponsorship scams

Sometimes referred to as Instagram ambassador scams, fake sponsorship scams also use fake or hacked accounts. Although, instead of posing as an influencer, these accounts pretend to be legitimate brands.
Traits of a sponsorship scam include:

DMs from fake brand accounts

Offers to pay you for advertisements

Requests for your personal information

Opportunities to sign up as an ambassador

In some schemes, you may even be promised a free or discounted trip, often for an in-person meeting or photoshoot. In reality, these situations are fake and used to steal your personal and financial information.

6. Lottery and giveaway scams

Another common scheme on Instagram are fake lottery and giveaway scams. These scams are designed specifically to steal your information and convince you that you've won a prize or contest.
Lottery and giveaway scams often include:
In some Instagram giveaway scams, scammers will hijack a real account or impersonate someone that is running a legitimate giveaway. Because of this, it's important to always be cautious and never share any personal information with someone you're unsure of.

7. Crypto scams

These days, it's almost impossible to browse the web without hearing about cryptocurrency. Unfortunately, scammers have taken advantage of crypto's increasing popularity to scam Instagram users.
Traits of an Instagram crypto scam include:
In these Instagram DM scams, you'll likely lose your entire investment and may even have your Instagram account hacked and used to scam your friends.

8. Romance scams

Sometimes described as catfishing, romance scams may leave you and your account exposed to hackers. These scams can be frustrating, often causing emotional and financial pain.
Common traits of Instagram romance scams include:
When running romance scams on Instagram, scammers may use elaborate lies and social engineering tactics to manipulate you for your money and personal information.

9. Investment scams

Similar to crypto Instagram scams, many scammers target those who may need some extra money with fake investment opportunities. Because of this, it's best to be cautious of any cash flipping or get-rich-quick schemes.
Characteristics of Instagram investment scams include:

DMs from people appearing to live a lavish lifestyle

Promises of wealth and financial success

Requests for an initial investment, often using mobile payment apps

Once the Instagram scammer has your initial investment, you'll likely never hear from them again, and they'll continue trying to do this to others.

10. Fake product scams

Unfortunately, fake product and online shopping scams are common on Instagram. These scam Instagram accounts often have many followers, making them seem more legitimate.
Fake product scams often include:
Once you've given the scammers your personal information, you may lose access to your Instagram account, receive a knock-off version of the item you ordered, or even worse, have your identity stolen.

11. Paid subscription scams

Another scam to watch out for is paid subscription scams. In these scams, you may be offered access to genuine subscription services at a discounted price.
Paid subscription scams often include:

Accounts promoting lifetime or discounted access to subscription services

Links to fraudulent copycat websites

Requests for payment and personal information

In most cases, these scams promote popular subscription services like Netflix, Spotify, and Xbox Live. To be safe, never sign up for a subscription service anywhere other than the service's official website.

12. Blackmail scams

In some Instagram hacking scams, scammers may try to blackmail you as a form of harassment or for financial gain.
Traits of Instagram blackmailing scams often include:
When it comes to blackmailing scams, the hacker might not even have any of the information they claim they do, and instead are trying to scare you into meeting their demands.

How to spot a scammer on Instagram: 13 warning signs

Even though there are different types of social media scams, there are common red flags that many of them share. Keep an eye out for these Instagram scam warning signs:

1. They ask you for money

2. They tell you you've won a contest or prize

3. They claim they can make you money quickly

4. They ask you to apply for a job

5. They move the conversation outside of Instagram

6. They send you a link to an unsafe website

7. They claim they need your help in an emergency situation

8. They offer you an investment opportunity

9. They offer you a discount on popular items or services

10. They try to sell you gift cards

11. They send messages with spelling and grammar mistakes

12. They claim to represent a company but are not a verified account

13. They ask for your personal information

If you come across any combination of these warning signs, don't worry, because there are steps you can take to stop the scammer in their tracks. Continue reading to learn what to do if you run into a scam on Instagram.

What to do if you get scammed on Instagram

Now that you know exactly what to look for when identifying scams, you may be wondering what to do if someone scams you on Instagram. To keep you and your Instagram account safe, follow these steps:

1. Don't respond or click any links: Whenever you receive Instagram scam messages, it's best to avoid responding or clicking any links.

2. Block the account: To block someone on Instagram, click on their profile, tap the three-dot icon at the top right of your screen, and select "Block."

3. Report the account: To report the account, follow the same steps as above, but select "Report." Once you've selected "Report," follow the on-screen instructions to help inform Instagram of the specifics of the scam.

By following these steps, not only will you protect yourself, but you can also help Instagram stop these accounts from scamming anybody else.

How to avoid Instagram scams: 9 cybersecurity tips

Now that you're equipped with the knowledge of how to report a scammer on Instagram, you might want to know how you can avoid them altogether. To reduce your chances of getting scammed, follow these nine cybersecurity tips:

1. Use common sense: If someone pitches you a deal that seems too good to be true, it most likely is. Always be cautious and use common sense when interacting with others on Instagram.

2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Using 2FA can help prevent anybody else from getting into your
Instagram account, even if they get access to yourpassword.

3. Look for the verification check mark: If an account reaches out to you claiming to be an influencer or brand account, look for the blue verification check mark by their name. If they don't have that, they are likely a scam account.

4. Avoid linking your Instagram to third-party apps: In some cases, third-party apps may ask for access to
your Instagram account. Before saying yes, be sure to do your own research and see if the app is legitimate, as some apps could be harvesting andselling your data.

5. Make your account private: Keeping your Instagram account private will only allow users you approve to view your account. You can do this by tapping "Settings," selecting "Privacy," and then turning on the Private Account feature.

6. Use strong passwords: To keep your Instagram account as safe as possible, it's important to create a strong password. This can help prevent Instagram frauds from taking over your account using password spraying or other tactics.

7. Never click on suspicious links: In many cases, Instagram scammers may try to lead you to a malicious website. To avoid this, never click on any links you're unsure of.

8. Only shop from verified accounts: Since Instagram added its shopping feature, many businesses have begun advertising and selling products online. Unfortunately, scammers are pretending to do the same. To be safe, only buy from accounts that are verified with a blue check mark.

9. Use an antivirus app: For an extra layer of protection, you can install an antivirus app on your mobile device. This can help protect your phone from mobile threats, including viruses, malware, and spyware.

By following these tips, you can scroll through Instagram without having to worry about dealing with any scams. To protect yourself further, be sure to keep your personal information safe and use caution when sharing on social media.

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12 Instagram scams to know and avoid in 2023

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Many scammers are now using Instagram to scam people online. Check out this guide to learn more about Instagram scams and how to spot, report, and avoid them.