Top 10 Red Flags to Identify and Avoid Online Scams: Protecting Yourself in the Digital Age
In today’s digital world, online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and common. Cybercriminals use various tactics to deceive unsuspecting victims, resulting in financial losses or even identity theft. To help you navigate this treacherous online terrain, we present the top 10 red flags that should alert you to potential scams.
Unexpected Contact: If you receive an unsolicited message, email, or call from someone claiming to be a representative of a company, especially requesting sensitive information, be wary.
Tip:
Never share personal or financial details with anyone who contacts you unsolicited.
Pressure Tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to force quick decisions, which can cloud your judgment.
Tip:
Take your time to research any offers or requests before responding. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Phishing Emails: Phishing emails appear legitimate but contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal your information.
Tip:
Do not click on links or download attachments from unexpected emails. Instead, hover over the links to see their true addresses and verify their authenticity.
Suspicious Websites: Look for misspelled URLs, outdated designs, or other signs of a poorly maintained website. These may indicate a scam.
Tip:
Before entering any personal information on a website, ensure it is secure by checking the URL begins with “https” and the padlock icon is present in the address bar.
5. Unverified Payments: Be skeptical of any requests for payment through unconventional methods like wire transfers or prepaid gift cards.
Tip:
Always use reputable payment processors and verify the seller’s legitimacy before making a purchase.
6. Misrepresented Identity: If someone impersonates a trusted entity like a bank, government agency, or a well-known company, be cautious.
Tip:
Contact the legitimate organization directly to confirm any communications from supposed representatives.
7. Unrealistic Promises: Scammers may promise unrealistic rewards or benefits to lure you into a scheme.
Tip:
Be skeptical of any offers or promises that seem too good to be true. If an opportunity requires an upfront investment, do extensive research before deciding.
8. High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, such as limited-time offers or threats that your opportunity will be lost if you don’t act quickly.
Tip:
Never feel obligated to make a decision on the spot. Take your time and consider all available information before making a commitment.
9. Asking for Personal Information: Scammers may ask for personal information under the guise of verification or eligibility.
Tip:
Only share personal information with trusted sources and never provide sensitive details via email or phone.
10. Requests for Remote Access: Be cautious when granting access to your computer or financial accounts, even if the request appears legitimate.
Tip:
Never provide remote access to your computer or financial accounts without verifying the requester’s identity and legitimacy first.
Staying Vigilant Against Online Scams: Identifying the Top 10 Red Flags
Online scams, also known as cybercrimes, have become an increasingly prevalent issue in today’s digital age. From phishing emails to fake websites, scammers are constantly finding new ways to deceive unsuspecting victims and steal their hard-earned money or personal information.
The Consequences of Ignoring Online Scams
The consequences of falling prey to an contact scam can be devastating, both financially and emotionally. Identifying and avoiding these scams is essential for protecting yourself and maintaining the security of your digital presence.
Top 10 Red Flags to Look Out For
To help you stay informed and protect yourself from online scams, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 red flags to look out for.
Unsolicited Contact
Be wary of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or text messages from unknown sources. Scammers often use these methods to gain your trust and steal your personal information.
Requests for Personal Information
Scammers will often ask for sensitive personal information, such as social security numbers, bank account details, or passwords. Never share this information with anyone who contacts you unsolicited.
Pressure Tactics
Scammers may use pressure tactics, such as threatening to cancel your account or claiming that an offer is only available for a limited time, to get you to act quickly and make impulsive decisions.
Suspicious Email Addresses
Check the email address of the sender carefully. Scammers often use addresses that are similar to, but not exactly the same as, legitimate companies or organizations.
5. Unsolicited Checks or Money
If you receive an unsolicited check or money in the mail, be cautious. Scammers may use this tactic to gain access to your bank account.
6. Grammatical Errors and Poor Spelling
Scammers often use emails or websites with grammatical errors and poor spelling to avoid detection.
7. Request for Payment via Wire Transfer
Scammers may ask you to pay them via wire transfer, which is difficult to trace and reverse.
8. Promises of Large Sums of Money
Be wary of offers that promise large sums of money for little or no effort. These scams often involve upfront fees or require you to provide personal information.
9. Unusual Payment Methods
Scammers may ask you to pay using unusual payment methods, such as gift cards or cryptocurrency.
10. Urgent Requests for Action
Scammers may use urgent requests for action to get you to act quickly and make impulsive decisions, which can lead to financial losses or identity theft.
By being aware of these red flags and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect yourself from online scams and maintain the security of your digital presence.
Red Flag #1: Unsolicited Contact
Unsolicited contact, also known as unsolicited messages or cold calls, refers to any form of communication that is initiated by a stranger without your prior consent. This includes emails, messages on social media platforms, and even phone calls. While not all unsolicited contacts are scams, they can be used by scammers as a tactic to gain your trust and eventually manipulate you into parting with your money or personal information.
Description of Unsolicited Contact
Unsolicited contact can come in various forms, such as:
- Emails: You might receive an email from someone claiming to be a long-lost relative, a lottery official, or even a prince in a far-off country.
- Messages: You might receive a message on social media from someone who seems friendly and wants to engage in conversation.
- Phone calls: You might receive a call from someone who claims to be from your bank or a government agency.
Explanation of How Scammers Use Unsolicited Contact to Gain Trust
Scammers use unsolicited contact as a way to build trust and establish a relationship with their victims. They often use social engineering tactics to appear legitimate and trustworthy, such as:
- Impersonating a trusted entity: Scammers might pretend to be from a bank, a government agency, or even a well-known company.
- Using personal information: Scammers might use personal information they have obtained about you to make the contact seem more legitimate.
- Creating a sense of urgency: Scammers might create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly before you have time to think about the situation.
Examples of Common Unsolicited Contact Scams
Phishing scams: In a phishing scam, the scammer sends an email or message that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or a social media platform. The message contains a link or attachment that, when clicked, installs malware on your device or steals your login credentials.
Lottery scams: In a lottery scam, you might receive an email or message from someone claiming to be a lottery official. They tell you that you’ve won a large sum of money and ask for your personal information in order to process the winnings.
Romance scams: In a romance scam, you might receive a message from someone who seems interested in you. They build a relationship with you and eventually ask for money or personal information.
Tips for Handling Unsolicited Contact and Reporting It
Here are some tips for handling unsolicited contact:
- Don’t engage: Don’t respond to unsolicited messages or calls, especially if they ask for personal information or money.
- Verify the sender: If you’re unsure about the authenticity of an email or message, contact the company or organization directly using their official website or customer service number.
- Report suspicious activity: If you receive an unsolicited message that looks like a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities, such as your email or social media provider, the Federal Trade Commission, or your local police department.
I Red Flag #2: Requests for Personal Information
Scammers often use personal information to commit fraud or identity theft. Guarding your personal information carefully is crucial in protecting yourself from such threats. Scammers may ask for various types of sensitive data, including
social security numbers
,
bank account details
,
passwords
, and even
biometric data
. Once obtained, this information can be used to open unauthorized accounts, drain bank accounts, or assume your identity.
Explanation of how scammers use personal information to commit fraud or identity theft
Fraud: Scammers may use your personal information to impersonate you and gain access to your financial accounts. For instance, they could open a new credit card account using your name and social security number. Once the account is opened, they can make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals.
Identity Theft: Scammers might use your personal information to open new accounts in your name or assume your identity entirely. This can lead to significant financial and reputational damage, as well as a lengthy and complicated process to reverse the situation.
Types of personal information that should be guarded carefully
It’s essential to protect any information that can be used to identify, contact, or financially exploit you. Some common examples include:
- Social security numbers: These nine-digit numbers uniquely identify each individual. Scammers can use your SSN to apply for credit, open bank accounts, or even file tax returns in your name.
- Bank account details: Scammers might attempt to drain your accounts by gaining access to your bank or credit card information.
- Passwords: Scammers could use your passwords to access your email, social media accounts, or even your online bank account.
- Personal identification numbers (PINs): Scammers could use your PINs to access your accounts or make unauthorized transactions.
- Biometric data: Fingerprints, facial recognition, and other biometric information can be used to impersonate you or gain unauthorized access to your devices or accounts.
Examples of common scams involving requests for personal information
Fake Charities: Scammers may pose as charitable organizations and ask for donations or personal information. Always verify the legitimacy of the charity before donating or sharing any information.
Tech Support Scams: Tech support scammers may contact you claiming to be from a reputable company. They’ll ask for remote access to your computer and, while pretending to fix non-existent issues, they could install malware or steal sensitive data.
Best practices for sharing personal information online and verifying the legitimacy of requests
Avoid sharing sensitive information: Never share your personal information online unless absolutely necessary and with trusted sources. Be wary of unsolicited requests for personal data, even if the requester appears legitimate.
Verify the request: Before sharing any information, always verify that the request is legitimate. Contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or email address you have on record to confirm their request.
Use strong, unique passwords: Use complex passwords for all your online accounts and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
Secure your devices: Install antivirus software, keep your operating system and applications updated, and use a firewall to protect your computer from malware and unauthorized access.
Red Flag #3: Pressure Tactics
Scammers often use pressure tactics to manipulate their victims into making hasty decisions, increasing the chances of falling prey to fraudulent schemes. Understanding how these tactics work is essential in protecting yourself from online scams.
Explanation of How Scammers Use Pressure Tactics
Scammers employ various pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency and fear, making their targets feel compelled to act quickly without thinking. Such tactics are designed to exploit emotions like greed, anxiety, and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). By creating a false sense of urgency, scammers can pressure their victims into making rash decisions that could result in significant financial losses or identity theft.
Common Types of Pressure Tactics Used in Online Scams
Urgent deadlines: Scammers may claim that an opportunity is only available for a limited time, creating a sense of urgency.
Threats: Some scammers use threats to intimidate their victims into making hasty decisions, such as threatening to expose sensitive information or to harm them if they do not comply.
Guilt tripping: Scammers may try to manipulate their victims by making them feel guilty for not taking advantage of an offer, creating a false sense of responsibility.
Emotional appeals: Scammers may use emotional appeals to evoke feelings of sympathy or love, making their targets more susceptible to manipulation.
5. Social proof: Scammers may use testimonials or fake endorsements from reputable sources to create the illusion of trustworthiness and legitimacy.
Examples of Common Scams Using Pressure Tactics
Investment opportunities: Scammers may use high-pressure sales tactics to convince their victims to invest in fraudulent schemes, promising exorbitant returns with unrealistic deadlines.
Fake job offers: Scammers may use pressure tactics to get their victims to accept a fake job offer and share personal information or make a payment.
Tips for Recognizing and Resisting Pressure Tactics, as well as Reporting Scams to the Authorities
Take your time: Don’t let scammers pressure you into making a quick decision. Take the time to research and verify any offers or requests before taking action.
Verify information: Use reputable sources to fact-check any claims made by scammers, and be skeptical of unsolicited offers or requests.
Don’t share personal information: Refuse to give out sensitive information, such as your social security number, credit card details, or bank account information.
Report suspicious activity: If you suspect you have been targeted by a scammer, report the incident to your local law enforcement agency and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
5. Stay informed: Educate yourself about common scams and red flags to help you recognize and avoid falling victim to online frauds.
Red Flag #4: Suspicious Links or Attachments
A. Malware and viruses can be spread through links and attachments in emails, instant messages, and social media postsings. When you click on a link or download an attachment, malicious code can be installed on your device without your knowledge. This can lead to data theft, identity theft, and other forms of cybercrime.
B. Common Types of Scams
1. Phishing Emails: These scams use links to trick users into providing sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, and social security numbers. The email may appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or a popular online service, but the link actually leads to a fake website designed to steal your information.
2. Malware Downloads:
Some links or attachments contain malware that installs itself on your device once you click or download. This can allow unauthorized access to your system, steal personal information, and even take control of your computer.
C. Tips for Identifying and Avoiding Suspicious Links or Attachments
1. Use Anti-Virus Software: Make sure you have a reliable anti-virus software installed on your device and keep it updated. This will help protect you against known viruses and malware.
2. Email Filters:
Set up email filters to block suspicious emails. For example, you can set up a filter to block emails from unknown senders or those containing certain keywords that are commonly used in phishing emails.
3. Check Links Before Clicking:
Hover your mouse over links without clicking to see the URL. If it looks suspicious or if it’s not what you were expecting, don’t click on it.
4. Avoid Downloading Attachments:
If an email contains an attachment, don’t download it unless you are sure it’s safe. Contact the sender to confirm that they actually sent the attachment and that it’s not malicious.
5. Verify Websites:
If you need to visit a website linked in an email, don’t just click on the link. Go to the website directly by typing the URL into your web browser instead.
VI. Red Flag #5: Spelling and Grammar Errors
Scammers often use spelling and grammar errors as a disguise to appear less sophisticated or trustworthy. Explanation: The human brain is wired to pay attention to anomalies, and spelling and grammar errors can be seen as such. Scammers count on this natural response to gain an edge in their schemes. They may deliberately introduce errors to make their messages seem less formal or suspicious, making it easier for unsuspecting victims to let down their guard.
Examples:
419 Scams
Named after the section of the Nigerian Criminal Code dealing with fraud, 419 scams are classic examples of how spelling and grammar errors can be used to deceive. These scams typically involve an email from a Nigerian prince or government official asking for help in transferring large sums of money out of the country, offering a percentage of the funds to the recipient. The emails are riddled with spelling and grammar errors, which are intended to make the sender appear unsophisticated or naive.
Nigerian Prince Scams
Another common scam utilizing spelling and grammar errors is the Nigerian prince scam. In this variation of the 419 scam, the sender claims to be a Nigerian prince in need of help, usually due to an inheritance or other financial windfall. Once again, the emails are filled with errors, designed to create a sense of urgency and distraction.
Tips for Recognizing and Avoiding Scams with Spelling and Grammar Errors:
Verify the Sender’s Identity
Always double-check any email that contains spelling or grammar errors. Search for the sender’s name and contact information online to ensure their legitimacy.
Use a Spell Checker
A simple spell check can help identify potential errors in emails and messages, making it easier to spot scams.
Be Skeptical
Remember that spelling and grammar errors do not automatically indicate a scam, but they should raise a red flag. Be suspicious of unsolicited emails or messages containing errors.
Report Suspicious Emails
If you come across a potentially fraudulent email, report it to the appropriate authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission or your local consumer protection agency.
Conclusion:
While spelling and grammar errors can be a red flag, they should not be the sole determining factor in identifying scams. Always remain cautious and skeptical when dealing with unsolicited communications containing errors, and use common sense to protect yourself from potential fraudsters.
Red Flag #6: Requests for Payment or Deposits
Scammers often use requests for payment or deposits as a tactic to steal money from unsuspecting victims. In this scheme, the scammer will create a sense of urgency and ask for payment or deposit to be made as a condition for receiving something of value. Here’s how it works:
Explanation of how scammers use requests for payment or deposits to steal money from victims
Scammers may: pose as a seller on an online marketplace, a potential employer offering a work-at-home opportunity, or even a representative of a charity. They will make up a story that requires payment for shipping fees, interview fees, equipment costs, or donations before the promised item, job offer, or reward can be delivered. Once the payment is made, the scammer disappears without providing the promised goods or services.
Examples of common online scams involving payments or deposits
- Work-at-Home Schemes: Scammers post job listings for work-from-home positions, often requiring an upfront deposit for training materials or equipment. The position turns out to be non-existent.
- Fake Charities: Scammers create fake charity websites or email campaigns, asking for donations. The money is not used for the intended charitable cause.
Best practices for making payments and deposits online
To protect yourself:
Use secure payment methods
Stick to well-known and reputable payment platforms, such as PayPal, Venmo, or credit cards. These methods offer fraud protection.
Verify the legitimacy of requests
Research the seller, employer, or charity before making a payment. Check their reviews on reputable websites and verify their contact information.
Be cautious of urgent requests
Legitimate businesses and organizations do not typically ask for payments to be made urgently or via unconventional methods, such as wire transfers.
Avoid sending money to unknown individuals or organizations
Never send money to individuals or organizations you do not know. Scammers often use social engineering tactics to gain your trust.
Remember
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always exercise caution and use your best judgment when dealing with requests for payment or deposits online.
Red Flag #7: Promises of Guaranteed Returns or Winnings
Scammers often use the allure of guaranteed returns or winnings to lure unsuspecting victims into risky investments or schemes. These promises are too good to be true and usually hide deceitful practices. In this section, we will explain how scammers use these guarantees, provide examples of common online scams, offer tips for recognizing and avoiding them, and suggest reporting procedures.
Explanation of how scammers use promises of guaranteed returns or winnings
Scammers employ various tactics to make their guarantees seem believable. They may use high-pressure sales techniques, create a sense of urgency through limited time offers, or rely on the bandwagon effect (making it seem like everyone is getting in on this opportunity). The scammer may also claim that their strategy or product has a proven track record, showing fake testimonials or statistics to back up the claim.
Examples of common online scams involving guaranteed returns or winnings
Pyramid schemes: Pyramid schemes rely on a hierarchical recruitment model, with members recruiting others to join and pay a fee or buy a product. The promise of making money through recruiting others is used to lure participants. However, the vast majority will lose money as they can only earn by recruiting new members.
Lottery scams: In these scams, victims are contacted with the news that they have won a large lottery or sweepstakes prize but need to pay an upfront fee to claim their winnings. In reality, there was no valid contest entry, and the victim is out of both money and personal information.
Tips for recognizing and avoiding scams that promise guaranteed returns or winnings
Beware of high-pressure sales tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency by pushing the victim to act quickly. Be wary of any offers that require immediate action or payment.
Check the credibility of the source: Research the company, product, or person making the guarantee. Verify their claims through trusted sources and avoid relying on anecdotal evidence.
Avoid unsolicited contacts: Scammers often use cold calls, emails, or social media to reach their victims. Ignore unsolicited offers and be cautious when engaging with unknown individuals online.
Be skeptical of guarantees: No legitimate investment or opportunity offers guaranteed returns. If a guarantee is promised, it’s likely a scam.
Reporting and additional resources
If you have fallen victim to a scam, report it immediately to your local law enforcement agency, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Better Business Bureau. The FTC offers resources on their website for reporting and avoiding scams: link. Additionally, educate yourself on common investment scams and how to protect your personal information online. Remember, if an opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stay informed and stay safe.
Red Flag #8: Free Trials or Offers with Hidden Charges
Scammers often use free trials or offers with hidden charges to lure unsuspecting victims into incurring unexpected expenses. These schemes typically work by offering a free trial period for a product or service, only to later bill the victim for continuing use or unnecessary add-ons without their knowledge or consent.
Explanation of how scammers use free trials or offers with hidden charges to trick victims
Scammers may create fake websites or use email spam to advertise these offers. Once a victim signs up, they might be required to provide payment information for “shipping” or “handling fees.” After the trial period ends, the scammer automatically enrolls the victim in an expensive subscription service or adds unneeded features or upgrades, which can result in significant and unexpected charges.
Examples of common online scams involving free trials or offers with hidden charges
- Subscription services: Scammers might offer free trials for streaming services, online games, or magazine subscriptions. After the trial period ends, victims may be billed monthly fees that can be challenging to cancel.
- Fake tech support: Scammers may claim to offer free technical assistance, only to later demand payment for “diagnostics” or “repairs.” In some cases, they might even install malware on the victim’s device.
Tips for recognizing and avoiding scams that offer free trials or hidden charges, as well as reporting them to the authorities
- Read the fine print: Be sure to carefully review the terms and conditions before signing up for a free trial or offer.
- Secure your personal information: Provide only necessary information, and never share sensitive data with unverified sources.
- Monitor your accounts: Regularly check bank statements and credit reports for any suspicious charges.
- Report suspected scams: Contact your bank, credit card company, or local authorities if you believe you’ve encountered a scam involving free trials or hidden charges.
Red Flag #9: Unrealistic Clclaims or Offers
Scammers often use unrealistic claims or offers to lure victims into risky investments or schemes. These scams can take many forms, but they all share a common goal: to persuade you to part with your money or personal information under false pretenses. Here’s how it works:
Explanation
Unrealistic claims or offers are promises that seem too good to be true. They may promise large returns with little effort, guaranteed winnings, or access to exclusive opportunities. Scammers use these promises to create a sense of urgency and excitement, making it easier for victims to overlook the warning signs.
Common Online Scams
Get-Rich-Quick Schemes
Get-rich-quick schemes are perhaps the most common type of scam involving unrealistic offers. They promise to help you make large sums of money quickly and easily, often requiring an upfront investment or fee. However, these schemes are almost always fraudulent, and the only people who make money are the scammers.
Investment Opportunities
Investment opportunities that promise high returns with little risk are also common sources of unrealistic offers. These scams may involve non-existent companies, fraudulent stocks, or other investment vehicles. The scammers use false information and high-pressure sales tactics to convince victims to invest their money.
Tips for Recognizing and Avoiding Scams
Here are some tips for recognizing and avoiding scams that make unrealistic claims or offers:
Do Your Research
Before you invest your money or share your personal information, do your research. Look for independent reviews of the company or opportunity, and be wary of any that lack transparency or have negative reviews.
Be Skeptical
If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical of any investment opportunity that promises high returns with little risk or requires an upfront payment.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect that you’ve been approached by a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities. This can help protect other potential victims and bring the scammers to justice.
Conclusion
Unrealistic claims or offers are a common tactic used by scammers to lure victims into risky investments and schemes. By being aware of the warning signs and taking steps to protect yourself, you can avoid falling victim to these scams.
Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or legal advice. Always consult with a professional advisor before making any investment decisions.
XI. Red Flag #10: Emotional Manipulation
Emotional manipulation is a common tactic used by scammers to build trust and exploit victims’ emotions. Scammers use various techniques such as love, fear, anger, or guilt to create a strong emotional connection with their targets, making them more susceptible to scams. Here’s how it works:
Explanation of Emotional Manipulation Techniques
Scammers use emotional manipulation in several ways. They might create a false sense of intimacy by professing love or admiration, playing on victims’ fear of loss, exploiting vulnerabilities, or using guilt to persuade them to send money or divulge personal information. For example, a scammer might promise an extravagant lifestyle or romantic bliss to lure victims into sending large sums of money, or they might create a fake emergency situation that requires immediate financial assistance.
Examples of Common Online Scams Using Emotional Manipulation
Romance Scams: A scammer poses as a loving partner online, builds trust and emotions, then asks for money or personal information.
Investment Scams: A scammer promises high returns on investments and uses fear of missing out (FOMO) to manipulate victims into investing large sums.
Extortion Scams: A scammer threatens to reveal embarrassing personal information or damage reputation if a ransom is not paid.
Tips for Recognizing and Avoiding Emotional Manipulation Scams
Be wary of unsolicited attention or requests for money from strangers, even if they seem genuine and caring.
Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
Verify identities by conducting a reverse image search or background check on the person’s profile picture.
Use two-factor authentication for financial accounts and secure passwords.
5. Report suspicious activities to the platform or website where you first encountered the scammer and to your local law enforcement agency.
6. Keep personal information private and avoid sharing it online, especially with strangers or people you haven’t verified their identities.
7. Stay informed about the latest scam trends and best practices to protect yourself online.
X Conclusion
As we wrap up our discussion on online scams, it’s crucial to remember the top 10 red flags that can help identify and avoid potential scams:
1. Unsolicited contacts
2. Requests for personal information
3. Urgent or threatening messages
4. promises of large returns with little effort
5. Asking for payment via wire transfer or gift cards
6. Spelling and grammatical errors in emails or messages
7. Pressure to act quickly
8. Request for remote access to your computer or device
9. Unusual payment requests, such as cryptocurrencies
10. Phishing emails or websites that ask for login credentials
B. With the increasing prevalence of online scams, it’s essential to
C. We encourage everyone to share this information with their friends, family, and online communities. By spreading awareness and educating others about online scams, we can help prevent more people from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
D. If you suspect you’ve encountered an online scam or have been a victim, there are resources available to help. Report the scam to the link, link, or your state’s consumer protection agency. Additionally, learn more about internet safety and best practices by visiting link.
