PRACTICAL TIPS TO HELP AVOID ONLINE SCAMS
- tim461
- Mar 16
- 2 min read
1. Don’t Trust Unsolicited Messages
Ignore emails, texts, or calls from unknown sources claiming you’ve won a prize, need to verify an account, or owe money.
Don't click links or download attachments from unknown or unexpected messages.
2. Verify
If you receive a message from a company, go directly to their website rather than clicking on links.
If someone claims to be from a business, call them back using the official number from their website.
Scammers often impersonate banks, government agencies, and tech support.
3. Protect Your Personal Information
Never share sensitive details (SSN, passwords, or credit card info) over email, text, or phone.
Use unique, strong passwords.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible.
4. Watch Out for Urgency and Fear Tactics
Scammers often pressure people to act immediately. Pause, think, and verify before taking any action.
Urgency & Fear Tactics: Scammers pressure you to act quickly.
Poor Grammar & Spelling: Many scam emails have obvious errors.
5. Use Secure Payment Methods
Use credit cards instead of debit cards for online purchases; they offer better fraud protection.
Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency payments—scammers love these because they are hard to trace.
6. Keep Your Devices Secure
Install and update antivirus software.
Keep your operating system and apps updated.
Be cautious about installing unknown software or browser extensions.
7. Be Careful on Social Media
Limit the personal details you share (e.g., your birthday, pet’s name, location).
Be cautious of friend requests from strangers or duplicate accounts of people you know.
8. Report and Educate
if you have any questions about how to stay safe online
or about any other technical issue.
Tim Tirendi • 215-869-5185 • Tim@iHelpcs.com
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