To protect yourself from scams, be cautious about sharing personal information online, verify the legitimacy of any unexpected communication, never click suspicious links, be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, research companies before making purchases, and report any suspected scams to the appropriate authorities; if unsure, always double-check with the company directly before providing sensitive details.
Key points to remember:
- Don’t share personal information readily: Be careful about giving out details like your full name, address, credit card number, or social security number unless you are absolutely sure the recipient is trustworthy.
- Verify communication: If you receive an email, text, or phone call claiming to be from a company you do business with, double-check by contacting the company directly through a known phone number or website to verify legitimacy.
- Beware of phishing scams: Don’t click on links in suspicious emails or texts, even if they seem to come from a familiar source.
- Check for red flags: Watch out for urgent requests for money, pressure tactics, overly generous offers, or requests to pay with unusual methods like wire transfers or gift cards.
- Do your research: Before making a purchase online or providing information to a new company, research their reputation online to ensure they are legitimate.
- Use strong passwords: Create complex passwords for your online accounts and consider using two-factor authentication for added security.
- Report scams: If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local consumer protection agency.
Specific situations to be cautious about:
- Online shopping: Check for secure websites with “HTTPS” in the URL and read reviews before buying from unfamiliar sellers.
- Social media scams: Be wary of unsolicited offers or messages on social media platforms, and don’t click on suspicious links.
- Job scams: Be cautious of job postings that promise high pay with minimal requirements or ask you to pay for training materials.
- Identity theft: Regularly monitor your credit reports and bank statements for suspicious activity.
