How to Avoid Scams on the Internet

By Paul Woods
In June 7, 2017
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Since its development, the internet has continuously surprised us with its capabilities. It has eased communication, shopping, learning and revolutionized other important aspects of our lives. However, just like the other things in our lives, the internet is not flawless; people have used it to create sites containing adult material and have also given rise to hackers who steal the private information of people. Interestingly, the hackers have also managed to replicate legitimate sites in a bid to trick their targets to provide sensitive information. As such, there are many scams that exist online and it is necessary that we avoid falling into their trap. The question is, how then can innocent users avoid these scams?

For starters, there is a need to double-check the URL of the site you intend to access. Some of the areas that feature most scams include social websites because the public would be less suspecting. Often, the web address for the replicated site will almost look like the authentic site. At times, the phishing site contains the web address of the real site, but in order to redirect you to the illegitimate one, there will be a code that redirects the traffic.

Moreover, it is necessary to be cautious when handling phone calls and emails that enquire about your personal information. Thus, only reply to mails and attachments from people that you already know o other sources that you consider trustworthy. Additionally, you need to know your email and hosting providers and their primary method of contacting you lest you provide sensitive information to fake providers.

Finally, always keep your computer secure by ensuring that it always has up-to-date anti-virus software, and spam filters. Moreover, ensure that you regularly update your programs. However, if you happen to fall prey to these scams and you have already disclosed your account number and passwords, you have to immediately notify the firms that you opened the accounts with so that they can respond appropriately.

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