Scams on Social Media To Look Out For

Although there is far more legitimacy found on social media platforms than falsehoods, it’s still important for people to never completely let their guard down, especially when trying to decipher whether information is true or just a simple scam. Internet scammers are always creating new ways to dupe both individuals and businesses alike. Listed below are several scams, some new and some more familiar, that users should always be on the lookout for.

Cancellation Scams 

Some scammers try to steal a user’s credentials by sending vague messages about receiving an account cancellation notice from the unsuspecting user. Since the user knows they didn’t close any accounts recently, they become concerned and click on the link provided in the message. If you know you didn’t close any of your accounts recently, don’t fall for this type of message. The scammer simply provided a link to a false site where they hope you will enter your credentials in for your real account. When in doubt, go to the account in question in the manner you normally do, to determine if it is indeed closed. 

Who’s Been Looking at You Scams

Scammers know that people often feel flattered to think someone has been “checking them out”. So it’s not uncommon for a scammer to try to get an unsuspecting user to click on a link that purportedly tells them who has been looking at their profile. When the user clicks on the link, the scammer downloads malicious software instead of providing any viewer information.

You’ve Won a Lottery

If it sounds too good to be true, it isn’t true — especially if you never entered a lottery recently since it’s impossible to win if you don’t enter. Lottery winner scams typically ask for personal information such as name, address, phone number, and perhaps even bank account numbers, so they can supposedly wire lottery proceeds to you. Don’t fall for this scam. Walk away without giving them any personal information. 

Romance and Nigeria Scams

These types of scams have been around for decades, but unfortunately some people still fall for them. The Nigeria scam typically goes something like this — “Help, I’m in Nigeria and I’ve lost my wallet. Can you send me some money?” Never send money to strangers! 

Romance scams offer fake profiles with little or no information other than photos of age-appropriate males or females, although some scammers try to fool their victims by posing as Hollywood stars. One woman was recently duped for years after believing she had an online romance going with a star from the popular TV series, “The Walking Dead”. Her family had great difficulty convincing her that the romance was completely false.

Summary

Your personal (and business) credentials, account information, and your heart, all need protection from online predators. Always use your critical thinking skills and research, research, research any unexpected attempts to connect with you or your business.