6 Types of Online Scams That Pose a Financial Risk

 

The Most Common Fraud Types in 2019

You can speak to a neighbor, a classmate, or a work colleague and they would likely tell you that they do not believe that scammers could target them. Everyone thinks he is smart. In a report published by the Federal Trade Commission, it is said that last year the money lost to fraud reached the astonishing level of $1.48 billion. How do people fall so easy? Let's take a look.

Watch the video below to see how scammers tell you to pay when get in contact:

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How Scammers Tell You To Pay Video

Some people believe that they will never be caught or involved in a scam. Given the number of online scams that are out there today, you can't take anything for granted. It is just human nature to think that you're invincible, and the stories that you have heard are myths.

However, the truth of the matter is that there are a lot of potential threats out there. This is especially true when it comes to the Internet. In fact, throughout your time on the Internet, you were probably very close to becoming a victim of many scams but didn't know it.

 

That being said, the best way to avoid all the potential scams is by understanding the ones that pose a threat to you. How can they hurt you? When you know these things, you will indeed have a better understanding of the risk that you face every time you go online. Let's take a look at some examples, in general terms.

1. Credit Card Scams

There is a good chance that you have probably heard at least one or two online horror stories about credit card scams. You might even know someone who has gone through one of these ordeals. Whatever the situation is, there is no denying that credit card scams are common and potentially hurtful.

This is probably even truer when you consider the amount of online shopping that you are doing these days. Just think about it. Every time you buy something online, you have to enter in the CVC or three-digit code on the back of your card. This code with your 16-digit credit card number could provide complete, unfettered access to your financial accounts.

How do you know malware programs or keystroke software aren't targeting your information every time you enter it online?

2. Online Gambling Scams

Most people have tried online gambling. Many others have at least heard of it. There is no denying that the practice is growing more prevalent than ever. There is nothing wrong with this because sites like situs poker online really offer a more convenient and lucrative way to gamble as opposed to land-based gambling.

The only problem with this is that there are still several online establishments located in areas of the world where gambling and gaming aren't adequately regulated. Without gaming commissions to keep these companies in check, they have free rein to run wild and treat their customer any way they see fit. What's even more troubling is that they won't face any repercussions for these actions.

3. Facebook Scams

Facebook is, by all means, the most popular social media provider out there, with over two billion users. You probably have a Facebook account, along with everyone else you know. Some individuals might even have more than one account. This is because Facebook does not ensure that those who register for the accounts are legitimate.

Users can use fake names, addresses, and handles to create a whole slew of accounts if they want. Not only this, but they can attach any photos, pics, or videos that they want to the account – see the Facebook Lottery Scam or the Authentic Profile Trick. Given the number of pics, videos, and photos that people are placing online these days, it would be hard to imagine someone stealing yours or an acquaintance.

You have to be careful who you are talking to and doing business with on Facebook. There is always a slight chance that they are not who they say they are. Divulging financial information to one of these individuals could be more than potentially dangerous.

4. Employment Scams

There are a plethora of employment scams out there. After people who are looking for jobs post their resumes online, scammers contact them claiming to be HR employees of well-known companies.

Once trust is gained, a fake interview is being held with the victim (who thinks is about to be hired), and criminals are asking for money, for different reasons – eg. Amazon jobs from home, mystery shopper, employee benefits, travel expenses, etc.

5. Real Estate Scams

There is no surprise that since a house is the most significant investment we make over our lifetime as individuals, scammers come into the game as well. Be very careful of online rental property scams, vacation traps, and other deals that relate to real estate. There was a case when criminals got away with 12 million dollars posing as a construction firm, in a scam that made worldwide news. Here is a list with real estate scams.

6. Email Scams

Email scams are probably one of the most common, and a lot of people use them because they are so effective. How many times have you gotten an email asking for your banking information or login information? A couple of examples would be the Apple Invoice Scam or the Instagram Copyright Infringement Scam. The most troubling part is that the email looks legit. It will have bank logos or seals. The letter might even include an authenticated signature of the branch manager. Keep in mind that this is just one of the many email scams out there.

 

How To Report Scammers

Let your family and friends know about this article by sharing it on social media using the buttons provided. You can also officially report the scammers to the Federal Trade Commission using the link below:

Report To The FTC Here

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