In today’s digital world, knowing how to avoid online scams safely is crucial. With millions of people shopping, banking, and socializing online every day, cybercriminals are finding new ways to steal personal information, money, and sensitive data.
From fake emails to phishing websites, online scams are becoming more sophisticated, targeting unsuspecting users of all ages. Being cautious and informed isn’t just smart—it’s essential to protect yourself and your digital life.
Types of Online Scams
Phishing Emails
One of the most common and dangerous scams is sending fraudulent emails or messages pretending to be from a trusted company — like a bank, delivery service, or online store — to trick you into giving away personal data, login credentials, or payment information.
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In 2024, nearly 900 million phishing attempts were blocked worldwide, a 26% increase compared to 2023.
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In Africa, around 8.7% of users were affected by phishing attempts in 2022.
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These attacks often use “social engineering”: scammers might pretend there’s a problem with your order or bank account, or warn of a delivery issue, then provide a link to a fake website.
Because phishing is so common and often sophisticated, it represents a major risk to anyone using email or messaging online.
Fake Websites & Online Shopping Fraud
Scammers sometimes create fake websites that look like legitimate shops or trusted services — but their goal is to trick you into paying for items that don’t exist or to steal your payment/card details.
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Victims worldwide lost more than US $1.03 trillion to scams in a 12-month period, including many related to online shopping fraud.
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Many phishing attacks target online shopping platforms and e-commerce, making fake websites a major concern.
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Fake-site scams are especially dangerous because they mimic real shops or payment portals, often making detection hard, and victims may lose money or give away card/identity data.
Social Media Scams
Social media platforms and messaging apps have become a hotbed for scams because scammers can easily reach many people, impersonate trusted people or brands, and exploit social trust.
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Many adults say that email, text messages, and social media are significant venues for scam attempts.
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Social media scams can include false job offers, fake investment opportunities, phishing links, and impostor profiles of friends or brands.
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Because of the trust and familiarity people often have on social media, scammers exploiting those platforms can be very convincing.
Online Shopping Fraud (Non-Website Scams)
This includes scams tied directly to online marketplaces or shopping apps — not just fake websites. It covers scenarios like paying for items that never arrive, receiving counterfeit goods, or being lured by too-good-to-be-true deals.
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About 36% of adults surveyed said they had purchased an item online that never arrived or turned out counterfeit.
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Nearly 73% of adults have experienced at least one type of online scam in their lifetime, including credit-card fraud, shopping fraud, and phishing.
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The global cost of such scams is enormous, showing that buying online safely requires vigilance.
Why It Matters
The variety of scam types — phishing emails, fake websites, social media scams, and shopping fraud — shows that scammers adapt to new platforms and tactics. As more people rely on online shopping, social media, and digital communication, the opportunities for fraud increase. Understanding these threats is the first step to staying safe online.
Warning Signs of Online Scams
Being able to spot scams early can save you from serious financial loss or identity theft. Here are some common warning signs to watch out for:
1. Unusual Payment Requests
Scammers often ask for payments in unconventional ways, such as gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. Legitimate companies rarely request payment methods that are hard to trace. If someone pressures you to pay quickly or in an unusual way, it’s a major red flag.
2. Poor Grammar or Spelling in Emails or Messages
Professional companies usually proofread their communications carefully. Emails or messages with spelling mistakes, awkward phrasing, or strange formatting may indicate a scam. Pay attention to small errors — they can be a sign that the message is fraudulent.
3. Suspicious URLs
Always check the website address before clicking links. Scammers often create URLs that look like the real website but have subtle differences, such as missing letters, extra words, or unusual domain extensions. Hover over links to see the full address before clicking.
4. Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers
If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers lure victims with promises of free products, huge discounts, or instant wealth. Always verify the source before trusting any incredible deal.
Recognizing these warning signs is an essential step in learning how to avoid online scams safely. Being cautious, double-checking information, and trusting your instincts can protect you from becoming a victim.
Tips to Avoid Online Scams Safely
Protecting yourself online doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these practical steps, you can reduce your risk and stay safe while browsing, shopping, or communicating online:
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Create passwords that are long, complex, and different for each account. Avoid using obvious details like birthdays or common words. Consider using a reputable password manager to store and generate secure passwords.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adding an extra layer of security through 2FA makes it harder for scammers to access your accounts, even if they have your password. Most banks, email providers, and social media platforms offer this feature.
3. Verify Websites Before Entering Information
Before submitting personal or payment details, double-check the website’s URL and look for the padlock icon in the browser bar. Be cautious of sites that look suspicious, have unusual domain names, or lack secure connections (HTTPS).
4. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links
Never click links from unknown emails, messages, or social media posts. Scammers often use phishing links to steal your login credentials or infect your device with malware. Hover over links to preview the URL before clicking.
5. Use Secure Payment Methods
When shopping online, use secure payment options such as credit cards or trusted payment gateways like PayPal. Avoid paying through gift cards, wire transfers, or other untraceable methods requested by unknown parties.
6. Keep Software and Antivirus Updated
Regularly update your operating system, apps, and antivirus software. Updates often include security patches that protect you from known threats, helping you avoid malware and other cyberattacks.
Following these tips consistently can help you stay one step ahead of scammers and maintain your digital safety. Practicing caution online is the best way to learn how to avoid online scams safely.
Protecting Personal Information
Keeping your personal data safe is a key part of learning how to avoid online scams safely. Here are some practical strategies:
1. Only Share Essential Data
Be cautious about what personal information you share online. Avoid giving out details like your full address, date of birth, or financial information unless it’s absolutely necessary and with a trusted source. Scammers can use excess information for identity theft or targeted attacks.
2. Check Privacy Settings on Social Media
Review your social media accounts and adjust privacy settings to control who can see your posts, profile information, and contact details. Limiting visibility reduces the chances of scammers finding and targeting you.
3. Monitor Your Accounts for Unusual Activity
Regularly check your bank statements, credit card accounts, and online profiles for unusual or unauthorized activity. Early detection can prevent bigger problems and make it easier to take action if something suspicious occurs.
These steps help protect your personal data, keeping you safe from fraudsters and making it easier to maintain control over your digital life.
What to Do if You’re Scammed
Even with caution, anyone can fall victim to an online scam. What matters most is how quickly you respond. Taking the right steps can reduce damage and help you regain control of your accounts and information.
1. Report to Authorities or Consumer Protection Agencies
If you suspect you’ve been scammed, report it immediately. Many countries have online fraud reporting centers or cybersecurity agencies that handle scam cases. Reporting helps authorities track patterns, warn others, and sometimes catch the scammers involved.
2. Notify Your Bank or Payment Provider
If you shared payment details or sent money, contact your bank or payment provider right away. They may be able to block the transaction, secure your account, or issue guidance on the next steps. Quick action increases the chances of minimizing financial loss.
3. Change Passwords Immediately
If the scam involved your login information, change your passwords as soon as possible — especially for email, banking, and social media accounts. Enable two-factor authentication if you haven’t already to add an extra layer of security.
Acting fast can significantly reduce the damage caused by a scam. Staying aware, taking action quickly, and following safe online practices will help you better protect yourself in the future.
Conclusion
Online scams are becoming more sophisticated every year, making it more important than ever to stay informed and cautious. By understanding the common types of scams, recognizing the warning signs, and following proven safety tips, you can protect your personal information and avoid falling victim to fraud. Staying vigilant online isn’t just a precaution — it’s an essential part of digital life today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can we protect from online scams?
Protecting yourself from online scams requires a combination of awareness, cautious behavior, and strong digital habits. Scammers rely on urgency, emotional manipulation, and hidden vulnerabilities, so the most effective protection begins with slowing down and evaluating every message, offer, or request carefully.
One of the most important strategies is to verify the identity of anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. Scammers often impersonate companies, delivery services, banks, or even friends. Before responding, check official channels, compare contact details with those listed on legitimate websites, and avoid giving personal information through unsolicited messages.
Another key method is strengthening device security. Keeping your phone, computer, and apps updated reduces the risk of malware, spyware, or unauthorized access.
Many scams rely on outdated systems with exploitable weaknesses. Using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and avoiding password reuse across platforms significantly reduces the possibility of account takeover. For minors especially, sharing passwords with friends or storing them in unsecured places creates unnecessary risk.
Evaluation of online deals and offers is another vital defense. Scammers often create advertisements that seem unusually cheap or time-limited. Real businesses do not pressure customers into instant decisions through fear or urgency.
When an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Researching the seller’s background, reading independent reviews, and checking for signs of a legitimate business—such as verified customer support—can prevent losses.
Protecting financial information is equally important. Never share bank details, login codes, or one-time passwords with anyone online. Legitimate companies do not request sensitive information through text messages or social media.
Be cautious when clicking on links in emails or messages; scammers frequently use fake login pages to steal credentials. Typing the website address manually into your browser is safer than relying on links.
Finally, discussing online safety with a trusted adult is an important part of protection. If something feels suspicious, uncomfortable, or confusing, seeking guidance early prevents mistakes. Online scams change constantly, so staying informed, cautious, and communicative is the strongest long-term protection.
How to avoid scams in online shopping?
Avoiding online shopping scams begins with choosing reputable platforms and verifying the legitimacy of sellers. Many scams occur through fake websites that mimic real brands or through unverified marketplace accounts.
Before purchasing, examine the website’s URL carefully, ensuring it uses secure connections and correct spelling. Scammers often create slight variations that trick users into sharing payment information. When using marketplace platforms, review seller ratings, customer reviews, and the age of the account. New sellers with limited feedback should be approached cautiously.
Another essential strategy is avoiding extremely low prices. Scammers attract victims by offering unrealistic discounts on popular items. If an item is significantly below market value, the risk of it being counterfeit or nonexistent is high.
Researching typical prices helps determine whether a deal is legitimate. Additionally, reviewing photos carefully is important; scammers frequently use stock images or blurred, low-detail pictures to hide product flaws.
Safe payment practices represent a major part of fraud prevention. Use secure, traceable payment methods rather than direct transfers. Avoid sharing card information over messaging apps or insecure chat systems.
Real businesses provide structured checkout processes, clear return policies, and verified customer support channels. Scammers typically avoid these details or hide them behind vague descriptions.
Be cautious with communications after placing an order. Scammers often send fake shipping updates, tracking links, or requests for additional fees. Legitimate companies do not ask for extra payments after checkout. If a message feels suspicious, contact the company directly through its official site rather than responding through email or text.
Finally, check the store’s online presence. Legitimate businesses usually have an established footprint, including verifiable reviews, social media pages, or customer service contacts.
If you cannot find any credible information outside the store’s website, it may not be authentic. When uncertain, consult a trusted adult before completing a purchase. This combination of caution, research, and secure payment habits is the best way to avoid online shopping scams.
How to stop an online scammer?
Stopping an online scammer involves responsible reporting and safe disengagement rather than confrontation. Scammers adapt quickly and can become aggressive when challenged, so the safest approach is to avoid direct arguments or attempts to outsmart them.
Instead, once you identify suspicious behavior, stop responding immediately. Cutting off communication ensures they cannot extract more information or manipulate you further.
After disengaging, document the interaction by saving screenshots, messages, usernames, and transaction details if applicable. This information is helpful when reporting the scam to relevant platforms, such as social networks, messaging apps, or marketplace services.
These organizations can block the scammer, remove fraudulent accounts, and prevent others from being targeted. For minors, involving a trusted adult is essential before reporting or taking any official steps.
If you shared personal information, take immediate action to secure your accounts. Change passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor for unusual activity. If the scammer attempted to access financial information, inform your bank or guardian so they can help secure the account and look for unauthorized attempts.
Reporting the scam to appropriate authorities also contributes to stopping the scammer long-term. Many countries have agencies dedicated to online fraud, and most platforms have built-in reporting tools. These reports help identify patterns, shut down larger operations, and warn the public.
Importantly, never try to hack, threaten, or retaliate against a scammer. These actions are unsafe, potentially illegal, and escalate risk. The most effective method is immediate disengagement, documentation, secure account management, and proper reporting through the right channels. Combined with guidance from a trusted adult, these steps protect you while contributing to wider online safety.
How do we avoid scams?
Avoiding scams requires a combination of awareness, skepticism, and consistent digital habits that reduce vulnerability. One of the most important principles is to question unexpected messages, offers, or requests—whether through email, text, or social media. Scammers rely on trust and urgency, so slowing down and analyzing the message removes much of their advantage. Look for signs such as poor grammar, pressure to act quickly, or requests for confidential information.
Another critical strategy is protecting personal information. Never share passwords, PINs, verification codes, or banking details with anyone online. Legitimate companies do not request such information through direct messages. When logging into an account, avoid clicking links from emails and instead visit the official website manually. This prevents phishing, where scammers imitate real login pages.
Strengthening security tools also reduces risk. Using strong, unique passwords for each account and enabling two-factor authentication make it significantly harder for scammers to take control. Keeping your device updated further protects you from malware and unauthorized access.
Research plays an essential role in scam prevention. Before making purchases, donations, or responding to job offers, verify the organization through independent sources. Genuine businesses and institutions typically have verifiable websites, customer reviews, and contact information.
Finally, adopt the mindset that caution is a strength. If something feels suspicious, consult a trusted adult before taking action. The combination of careful decision-making, secure habits, and open communication forms the foundation for avoiding scams across all digital environments.
What are 7 internet safety tips?
Seven key internet safety tips help create strong protection against online threats: protecting personal information, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, being cautious with links, verifying sources, maintaining updated devices, and communicating with trusted adults.
The first tip is limiting what personal information you share online. Scammers and malicious users often gather details from profiles, posts, or messages to impersonate or manipulate others. Keeping sensitive information private reduces vulnerability.
The second tip is using strong, unique passwords. Reusing weak passwords increases the chances of account takeover. A strong password combines length, unpredictability, and variety.
The third tip is enabling two-factor authentication. Even if someone obtains your password, they cannot enter your account without the secondary verification code.
The fourth tip is avoiding suspicious links. Clicking unknown links can expose your device to phishing or malware. Always verify the source before opening any attachment or URL.
The fifth tip is evaluating information sources. Fake websites, impersonation accounts, and false messages are common. Confirm identities through official channels rather than relying on messages alone.
The sixth tip is regularly updating your device. Updates fix security flaws that scammers exploit. Keeping your system current improves protection.
The seventh tip is asking for help when uncertain. Discussing concerns with a trusted adult is crucial, especially for minors navigating complex digital environments.
Can a scammer get into your bank account with your phone number?
A scammer cannot directly access your bank account using only your phone number, but your number can be used as an entry point for more complex attacks. Understanding how this works is essential for protecting yourself.
Scammers often use a phone number to launch social engineering attempts, impersonate institutions, or trick victims into sharing sensitive information. For example, a scammer may call or text pretending to be from a bank, a delivery service, or a support center.
Their goal is not to break into your bank account instantly but to persuade you to reveal login details, verification codes, or other private information. Once you share these details, they can access your accounts.
Another risk involves SIM swapping, which is a process where a scammer convinces a mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM card they control. With the phone number, they could receive verification codes tied to your accounts.
However, SIM swapping is difficult to execute and usually targets adults with high-value accounts, not teens. Even then, it requires the scammer to have personal data such as full name, date of birth, or ID numbers. This is why protecting personal information online is essential.
Your phone number can also be used in combination with phishing attempts. A scammer might send a message containing a fake link that leads to a page designed to collect your banking login credentials. If you enter your information, the scammer gains access not because of your phone number, but because of the details you voluntarily typed into their fake page.
To avoid these risks, never share one-time passwords, verification codes, or banking details with anyone. Banks do not request this information through SMS or social media.
Enabling two-factor authentication strengthens your account security, and using strong passwords helps reduce the risk of unauthorized access. If you ever receive suspicious calls or texts, avoid responding and inform a trusted adult. While a phone number alone is not enough for a scammer to break into your account, it can be used as part of a broader attempt—so caution is the best defense.
What are 5 of the most current scams?
Five of the most current scams involve impersonation fraud, online shopping scams, investment scams, social media takeover attempts, and fake job opportunities. These scams evolve constantly, but the underlying tactics remain consistent: urgency, deception, and offers that appear too beneficial to ignore.
The first major category is impersonation scams. Scammers pretend to be banks, government agencies, delivery companies, or even friends. They often contact victims through text messages or fake emails asking for verification codes or personal information. The goal is to obtain account access or money. Because impersonation scams rely heavily on trust, verifying identities through official channels is essential.
The second category is online shopping scams. Fraudulent sellers post extremely cheap items, fake product reviews, or counterfeit goods. Many scams involve websites that disappear after payment is made. Teenagers often encounter these scams on social media marketplaces, where scammers exploit excitement around popular items like electronics, shoes, or gaming accessories.
The third category is investment scams. These scams promise quick profits, guaranteed returns, or unrealistic growth. They frequently target young people through influencers or anonymous accounts claiming to “flip money” or “multiply earnings fast.” Legitimate investments do not offer instant returns, and minors should never engage in financial transactions with unverified individuals.
The fourth category is social media account takeover scams. Scammers send messages asking for codes, claiming they mistyped their phone number, or posing as a friend who needs help. If the victim shares a code, the scammer gains immediate access to the account. Once inside, they message others to expand the scam. Never share verification codes under any circumstances.
The fifth category is fake job scams. These appear as easy online earnings, survey work, brand ambassador roles, or remote positions. Scammers may ask for upfront payments, personal details, or ID photos. Legitimate companies never request payment to access a job.
Understanding these five major scams helps reduce vulnerability. Awareness, verification, and caution—especially when something feels rushed or unusually appealing—form the strongest defense.
What is the best payment method to not get scammed?
The best payment methods for avoiding scams are those that offer strong buyer protection, secure processing, and traceability. These include regulated payment platforms that allow dispute resolution in case something goes wrong. The safest approach depends on the situation, but the common factor is choosing methods that allow you to challenge unauthorized or fraudulent charges.
Credit-backed digital payment systems and verified third-party processors often provide the strongest protection because they allow customers to dispute transactions and block payments.
For minors using supervised accounts, these systems offer added security because guardians can monitor activity. The ability to reverse or challenge a charge is extremely important when dealing with unfamiliar sellers or online marketplaces.
On the other hand, payment methods such as direct transfers, cryptocurrency transactions, or sending money through social media apps offer little to no protection. Once funds are sent through irreversible methods, recovering them is nearly impossible.
Scammers often insist on these unsafe methods precisely because they eliminate accountability. Any seller who pressures you to use such payment methods should be considered high-risk.
Safe payment methods also require a secure environment. Even the most protected system can be compromised if login details are shared or if the transaction is carried out through a suspicious link.
Always navigate to the payment platform manually rather than clicking links from messages or social media posts. Reviewing seller ratings, verifying the legitimacy of the business, and confirming refund policies also strengthen safety.
Parents or guardians should be involved in online purchases for minors. Adult supervision provides an additional layer of review, reduces the chances of impulsive decisions, and helps verify seller credibility.
Ultimately, the best payment method is one that maintains traceability, offers structured dispute procedures, and is used within a secure and verified platform. Combining these elements significantly reduces the likelihood of being scammed.
How to avoid online scams and frauds?
Avoiding online scams and frauds depends on practicing consistent digital safety habits and maintaining skepticism toward unexpected offers, requests, or messages.
One of the most effective steps is learning to evaluate communications critically. Scammers rely on urgency, claiming that your account is locked, a package is delayed, or an opportunity will disappear in minutes.
Pausing to think disrupts their strategy and gives you time to verify details. Always check official websites or contact verified customer support rather than responding directly to suspicious messages.
Protecting personal information is critical. Never share passwords, verification codes, or financial details with anyone online. Scammers often pose as trusted individuals or organizations to extract these details. Legitimate institutions never ask for sensitive information through SMS, messaging apps, or unsolicited calls. If you receive such a request, it is almost always fraudulent.
Using secure technology habits further reduces risks. Strong, unique passwords for each account—combined with two-factor authentication—make it significantly harder for scammers to take over accounts. Keeping devices updated ensures known security vulnerabilities are patched. Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi without proper safeguards because scammers can exploit such networks to intercept information.
When engaging in online shopping, research is essential. Verify the legitimacy of websites, look for consistent seller reviews, and avoid deals that seem dramatically cheaper than the market price. Unrealistic offers are one of the most reliable signs of fraud. Additionally, read return policies carefully and confirm the presence of reliable customer support.
Education and communication play major roles in prevention. Discussing suspicious messages with a trusted adult helps catch red flags you might miss alone. Reporting scams to platforms also helps prevent others from being targeted. Overall, avoiding online fraud requires a mindset of caution, verification, and good digital hygiene. These habits create long-term protection across all online environments.
How do you know if you are chatting with a scammer?
Recognizing that you are chatting with a scammer requires paying attention to behavioral patterns, communication cues, and inconsistencies. Scammers typically rely on manipulation, secrecy, and urgency.
One of the first signs is that the person avoids giving clear information about themselves while asking many personal questions about you. They may claim to be from a company, delivery service, or other institution but refuse to verify their identity through official channels.
Another sign is the presence of emotional or financial pressure. Scammers quickly create stories involving emergencies, opportunities, or urgent needs. They may ask for money, verification codes, passwords, or personal details. Any request for confidential information should be treated as an immediate red flag. Legitimate individuals do not need access to your accounts or private data.
Scammers often use strange communication patterns as well. This may include inconsistent grammar, copy-and-paste responses, or messages sent at odd intervals that seem automated.
They may avoid video calls or direct proof of identity, relying heavily on text messages to hide their true identity. If the conversation becomes secretive, rushed, or uncomfortable, you should disengage immediately.
Another clear indicator is when a person tries to move the conversation away from a secure platform to private messaging apps. Scammers often do this because these apps make it harder to report or track them. If someone insists on switching platforms quickly, it is a strong warning sign.
Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off, confusing, or suspicious, discuss it with a trusted adult. Scammers depend on silence and confusion. Asking questions, verifying identities through official sources, and refraining from sharing personal information are the best ways to determine whether the person you are chatting with is genuine or fraudulent.