Social Media Scams You Should Keep In Mind
Although social media platforms happen to allow us to connect in a fun and efficient way, they can also pose a serious threat if we aren’t cautious. There are many scammers on these platforms, and because of which, both individuals and businesses have ended up losing close to $100 billion in internet fraud over the years. In 2018, the Better Business Bureau reported 45,811 scams in the United States after which in 2019 that number quickly rose to a whopping 48,369 scams. Even though the scams might be common in nature, the techniques that are employed by scammers to execute them can vary. This article is to help you identify and keep in mind some of the most common scams on social media.
Lottery and Free Gift Cards
Often, you will come across posts on social media that claim to be giving out gift cards for popular stores, such as Starbucks, Target, and The Cheesecake Factory. Additionally, sometimes you might come across posts that announce that you have won the lottery as well. Now, if you are gullible enough to click on any links that those posts might ask you to click on, then you will be redirected to a site that will ask you to enter your information to claim your winnings. Once you have entered the information, you end up giving your identity to the scammers who can execute numerous illegal activities with it.
The Classic Gossip Scam
It is highly likely that you have come across a social media ad that might read something like ‘Is Michael Jackson Still Alive? This new footage reveals the answer!’ This type of scam plays on the fascination people have with celebrity news. When an individual happens to click on any one of these ads, they are taken to a page that tells them to download the latest video player to view the video. When you do so, you will find out that it is not a video player but a malicious malware of some kind or the other.
The Healthcare Scam
This popular scam involves fraudulent companies that offer services like a corrected social security card with the married name of a person, social security card to replace a lost card, and so on. These services are available for free from Social Security. However, the fraudulent companies charge a fee by making people believe that they are a legit business.
Catfishing
Scammers are always looking for an opportunity to con people who are looking for love on social media. This is called Catfishing. This is a form of online harassment wherein someone creates a fake identity online to start a relationship. When a strong enough emotional bond forms, the scammer starts using this fake relationship to scam people out of money.
Conclusion
This brings us to the end of our discussion on top social media scams you need to keep in mind. Now, do let us know some of your thoughts and opinions on the same.
