As the world becomes more digital, unfortunately many people are using this as a way to scam hard-working people. There are many ways scammers can do this- tricking you into downloading malware, stealing your information, or tricking you into handing over money which you won’t see again. There are many ways to protect your family online, and keep their devices and information safe. However, many money scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated as the digital age evolves. Here are some of the many ways in which you can keep you and your money safe from these fraudsters.
Know That Scams Are Everywhere
The first thing to know is that scam artists will target anyone and everyone. There are many ways people will try to scam you out of your money or information, for example if you don’t consider device safety when homeschooling or if you’re trying investing for the first time and don’t know what to look out for. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is. When being approached by a business, whether this be by telephone, email or social media, always keep in mind the possibility that they are not who they say they are. Always be sensible and consider every possibility.
Keep Your Personal Details Secure
One of the many ways these scammers can take money from you is if they have access to your financial information. Use a shredder to get rid of your bank statements and other financial information once you no longer need it- they won’t think twice about searching through landfill to get your information. Furthermore, consider putting a lock on your mailbox, to further protect your financial information.
Be Careful About Shopping Online
Always use online shopping services that are trustworthy and well-established. Many people lose thousands by buying from a site that is not actually selling goods. Again- beware of offers that are too good to be true. Make sure the shopping website is valid and legitimate before entering your financial details.
Educate Yourself On The Different Types Of Scams
There are different ways scammers will try to get your money. Vishing/Phishing scams will claim to be your bank, but once they get your financial details they will take your money. Advance-fee fraud, which is often in the form of email or social media, will promise a reward (such as inheritance) in exchange for a ‘small’ fee. Typically these will take the form of a wealthy person in need of help. Door-to-door scams will involve someone coming to your house, such as a builder who ‘just happened to notice damage to your roof.’ Fake charity ambassadors and salespeople can also make a lot of money just by coming to your door. Many scams will call you and ask for money or try to offer an investment service, such as the infamous Forex Scams. These scams claim to be able to give you a massive return on your investment. However, if the firm isn’t on the FCA register, do not give them your money.
Stay on top of your financial affairs
By checking your bank accounts regularly, you can keep track of all your outgoings and incomings. Often if people aren’t on top of their financial information, they don’t notice they’ve been scammed until it’s too late. By keeping track of all of your purchases, you will be able to tell if anything unexpected has come out of your account. By catching a scam early, you’ll have a better chance of getting your money back.
Take Your Time
Don’t be pressured into acting quickly- a legitimate business will understand you needing to take your time when sending money or making a decision. Scams, however, will try to pressure you into making a quick decision. By taking time to act on it you can save your money from these fraudsters.
As scams become more sophisticated, keeping yourself safe from scammers will become very important in your day to day life. By keeping all of these in mind, you will be able to keep yourself and your family more protected from scams.