Online scams have unfortunately become commonplace in our increasingly connected society. Despite efforts to raise awareness among Internet users, many still fall into the trap of these digital scams. Understanding internet scams is crucial to better protect yourself and avoid becoming a victim. Find out the reasons behind this persistent trend.
Why do people fall victim to online scams?
Lack of distrust
Too often we place too much trust in online platforms and are too gullible when faced with deals that seem too good to be true. We quickly forget to check the reliability of an online site as soon as we hear the words “flash sale”, “discount” or even “sale” . And frankly, who can blame you, it makes perfect sense to use eye-catching terms to sell.
This is not a problem when it comes to a site on which you have already made several purchases. If you make your purchases on the Zalando or Ikea website for example, there is no problem when you manage to have them delivered on time. On the other hand, when it comes to a lesser-known site or a fake site that impersonates a reputable brand, that’s where things get tricky. If you don’t take the time to carefully study the site in question or find out more by consulting the Verifsites.com verification tool , you can be fooled.
Did you know that it was possible to create a site in less than half a day ? Did you also know that it doesn’t take longer to take it offline? So avoid rushing headlong into an unrealistic offer and keep your eyes peeled to make sure each time you’re not being fooled. In short, the main factor that contributes to online scams is the lack of mistrust among users.
Lack of knowledge of scam techniques
Another reason lies in the lack of awareness of the techniques used by online scammers. Just by surfing a website designed to access your personal data , you can get scammed. But we don’t think about that every day.
You receive a text message which gives you a link on which you can earn around fifty euros per day by investing 2 euros and without moving from your sofa. How not to succumb!
You may then say to yourself, “it’s just a link” or “I’ll just see without giving any personal information” . And yet, the mere fact that you clicked on the link exposes you to the risk of scams. Many ignore the telltale signs of a potential scam and are unaware of the risks.
Influence of cognitive biases
Cognitive biases, such as unrealistic optimism and the anchoring effect, also influence our propensity to fall for online scams. Scammers exploit these biases to trick people into acting quickly and impulsively.
Let’s once again take the example of an online offer that promises quick and easy financial gains. Unrealistic optimism can lead you to believe that this opportunity is legitimate and could actually allow you to achieve your financial goals effortlessly. The anchoring effect occurs when the offer is presented as a time-limited opportunity . This creates a sense of urgency and pressure to act quickly before you “miss this chance.”
How to protect yourself from online scams?
Develop critical thinking
You have certainly been told very often “those who risk win”. However, take risks only after taking the time to analyze them and take precautions . It is essential to know what you are investing in to avoid the risk of exposing yourself to attempted scams. Systematically question the legitimacy of online offers and do not blindly believe in tempting promises.
Adopt online security practices
Protecting your online accounts is as easy as choosing an outfit to play sports! First, make sure you have strong, unique passwords for each account . They protect you from prying eyes and hacking attempts.
Vous pouvez en savoir plus sur la sécurité des sites Web.
Then, don’t forget to regularly update your software and antivirus software, this should become a reflex. These updates provide you with additional protection against malware .
By taking care of these little details, you can ensure that your online accounts are fresh and impenetrable. Put on your digital armor and conquer the virtual world in complete safety to find a job or a product on an online sales site.
Exercise caution and common sense
Avoiding financial transactions on unsecured sites is a basis for avoiding being fooled by online scammers. Keep your eyes peeled because an extra “s” in the link you click can make a major difference. Avoid browsing and providing personal information on unsecured sites, i.e. “http” and not “https”.
Next, take the time to verify the authenticity of sources and communications . If you must take action on a particular site, first consult the legal notices and the information given to ensure its credibility . If you don’t know the points that could help make a site reliable, then check out the reviews and the rating that has been given to the site on a website verification tool .