The internet can be a wonderful thing. It helps us keep in touch with loved ones, makes shopping easier than ever before, and puts more information at our fingertips than we could ever hope to read. However, the convenience of the internet does have its drawbacks. One such example is the prevalence of online scams.
What are Scams?
A scam is, by definition, a fraudulent, dishonest, or deceptive activity or scheme designed to make money. In most cases, scams target an individual person, tricking them into paying for a service they never receive.
Many scams involve a criminal, or criminals, posing as a reputable business. However, scammers can use a variety of methods.
Types of Online Scams
Online scams are a prominent form of cybercrime. In 2022/23, up to €85 million was stolen by fraudsters. To accomplish this figure, cybercriminals used a variety of methods. Examples include:
Fake websites
Scammers may create fake versions of government or banking websites. Sometimes these will show up in search results. Alternatively, you may mistype the web address and end up on a copycat website.
These false sites may charge you for goods or services that you will not receive. Another technique that may be used is to steal your login details by having you attempt to sign in. The scammers can then use your login details to access your account on the legitimate website. This could give them the freedom to make purchases using your card details.
Retail scams
Online shopping is one of the major conveniences of modern technology. We can order all manner of products by pressing a handful of buttons. Unfortunately, cybercriminals use this convenience to their advantage.
There are several types of retail scams criminals may attempt. For example, they may list a product on a classified ads site or auction website. After you pay for the item, the seller then disappears, you never receive what you’ve paid for, and the criminal now has your money. Other scammers may pose as travel agents, with the scam not being revealed until discovering there are no tickets or accommodation.
Relationship scams
Usually initiated through dating sites, scammers pose as someone interested in you romantically. They form a connection with you and use this to convince you to part with your money.
A relationship scam is almost always purely online. The criminal pretends to be someone else, using fake photos. They will avoid meeting but start asking for money. Some of these scams are short-lived, such as asking for fuel so they can visit you but never showing up or messaging you again. Others are long-term, with the scammer pretending to be struggling with money and promising to pay you back once they’re back on their feet.
Phishing scams
Perhaps the most common type of online scams, phishing uses emails to trick you into sending money or personal information to scammers. In most cases, cybercriminals pose as reputable companies or the government, telling you there has been a problem with a subscription or an account.
Most phishing scams include links that take you to fake webpages or download software to your computer. Scammers use a variety of tactics when sending out phishing scams. Most often, they use emails, sending messages that look genuine to trick you.
Recognising Online Scams
Fortunately, there are usually warning signs that something is a scam. By being aware of these signs, you will be less likely to be caught out by online scams.
One of the most important signs of a scam is that if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. A bargain price on something you’ve been trying to buy may, in fact, be a scam. Be sure to check the seller for any signs of being fake. On sites like eBay, a seller’s reputation can be checked. If they have not made any sales before, or if they have a poor reputation, it’s always safer to avoid buying from them.
Moreover, if a seller ever asks you to purchase a product by bank transfer rather than through a website’s billing system, refuse. This is a technique used by scammers to avoid refund systems if you do not receive your order. You will also not be protected by most retail websites’ policies if you do this.
Another favourite technique of online scammers is to make something appear urgent. This is especially common in phishing and relationship scams. You may receive an email that appears to be from your bank, saying you must login to stop a fraudulent payment. Alternatively, the fake person you have been talking to may claim they need urgent money otherwise they’re going to get kicked out of their house. Scammers are hoping the apparent time pressure will trick you into sending money without thinking. However, banks, online stores, and genuine friends will not send messages like this.
Furthermore, you should never send money to someone you do not know personally.
Other Scams
Online scams aren’t the only tactics used by fraudsters. As well as emails and fake websites, scammers will try to send you text messages or call you. The same warning signs apply here, especially if it is a number you do not recognise. A favourite tactic is to pose as the Revenue Commissioners and claim you owe tax that must be paid immediately.
Keep in mind that official channels will not call you this way. Official communications are usually provided by post. However, scammers do attempt postal scams, too. Keep an eye out for urgency and poor spelling or grammar. These are signs of a scam.
Doorstep scams are also a risk. A scammer may come to your door posing as a charity collector, or they may claim to be a builder offering to fix part of your house, only to take the money and leave the job unfinished. You can call the actual charities they claim to represent to verify their identity, or simply send them away. If they do not leave, call the Garda.
How to Report a Scam
If you believe you have been the victim of an online scam, or have found material you believe may be related to fraud – fake websites, suspicious classified listings, possible phishing emails, etc. – report it to your local Garda station. If you have been scammed through a website such as eBay or other retailers, use their report function.
You should also contact your bank if you believe scammers may have access to your account or banking details. They will be able to intercept any attempts to spend your money.
Protect Yourself at Home
Being aware of online scams isn’t the only way to stay safe. Your physical wellbeing is also important. If you are worried about falls at home, a personal alarm from LifeConnect24 offers reassurance around the home and garden. Help is available 24/7 at the press of a button.
To find out more about the LifeConnect24 alarm service, view our products or get in touch with our helpful team by calling 1 800 937543.
Editor’s Note: Updated on 18th January 2024
