The internet has revolutionized how we live, work, and connect. But with this convenience comes a darker side: online scams are more sophisticated and prevalent than ever. Cybercriminals prey on human trust, curiosity, urgency, and fear. They don’t always need to hack your system—they just need to trick you into giving up what they want.
As a cybersecurity analyst, I’ve seen how devastating these scams can be. From identity theft to financial loss and emotional distress, the impact can be long-lasting. Whether you’re a casual internet user, a small business owner, or managing enterprise systems, understanding common scams—and how to avoid them—is essential for staying safe online.
Let’s take a deep dive into five of the most common online scams and how you can protect yourself.
What it is: Phishing is the most widespread online scam today. It typically involves deceptive emails, text messages, or even phone calls that appear to come from legitimate sources—banks, delivery companies, government agencies, or even your workplace. The goal is to trick you into clicking a malicious link, downloading a file, or entering sensitive information such as login credentials or credit card numbers.
How it works: A phishing email might look like a routine password reset request from your email provider. Or it might claim that your bank account is locked and provide a link to “verify your identity.” Once you click, you’re taken to a convincing replica of the legitimate website. Enter your credentials, and you’ve just handed over the keys to your account.
How to avoid it:
Think before you click: Hover over links to see where they really go. If something feels off, don’t click it.
Verify the source: If you receive an email or message asking for personal information, don’t respond. Contact the company directly using a verified phone number or website.
Use multi-factor authentication (MFA): Even if someone gets your password, MFA can stop them from logging in.
Check for grammar and tone: Many phishing emails include small errors or awkward phrasing that raise red flags.
Update your software: Security patches help protect you from malware that phishing scams often deliver.
What it is: Tech support scams target people’s fear of viruses, malware, or performance issues. Scammers pose as legitimate tech support agents—often pretending to be from well-known companies like Microsoft, Apple, or antivirus vendors—and convince victims to grant remote access to their computers or pay for unnecessary (and fake) services.
How it works: You might receive a pop-up warning saying “Your computer is infected!” with a phone number to call. Or you may get a cold call from someone claiming to be from “Windows Support.” Once you engage, the scammer may instruct you to install remote access software or pay hundreds of dollars to “fix” the issue. In reality, they could be installing malware, stealing data, or just charging you for nothing.
How to avoid it:
Don’t trust unsolicited pop-ups or calls: Legitimate companies will never call you out of the blue to fix your computer.
Close suspicious pop-ups: Use Task Manager (Windows) or Force Quit (Mac) if necessary. Never call the number on a warning message.
Protect remote access: Only allow remote connections with someone you trust and only when you initiated the contact.
Educate family members: Older adults are frequent targets of tech support scams—make sure they know the warning signs.
Use security software: Real-time protection and browser filters can block scam sites before they load.
What it is: These scams occur on platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and even Amazon. The scammer might pose as a buyer, seller, or intermediary. The goal is to get your money or product without fulfilling their end of the deal.
How it works: Let’s say you’re selling a laptop online. You get an eager buyer who says they’ll pay extra if you ship it quickly. They send a fake payment confirmation or a forged cashier’s check. You send the item—then realize you’ve been duped. In reverse, you might buy an item from a fake seller who disappears after getting your money.
How to avoid it:
Use trusted payment methods: Avoid wire transfers or gift cards. Use PayPal Goods and Services or other secure platforms with buyer protection.
Meet locally when possible: If using Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, meet in public places and avoid shipping high-value items.
Verify listings and profiles: New or incomplete profiles, blurry images, or prices that seem too good to be true are red flags.
Wait for confirmation: Always wait for funds to clear before shipping anything.
Beware of overpayments: Scammers often “accidentally” send too much and ask for a refund—of money they never actually sent.
What it is: Romance scams exploit emotions. The scammer builds a relationship with the victim—usually online—gaining their trust and eventually manipulating them into sending money, sharing personal details, or even engaging in illegal activities unknowingly.
How it works: A scammer might create a fake profile on dating apps or social media. They appear charming, attractive, and emotionally available. Once they gain trust, they spin a story: a medical emergency, a stranded travel situation, or legal trouble. The victim is asked to send money or share financial information. In some cases, the scam escalates into sextortion or identity theft.
How to avoid it:
Be cautious with new online relationships: Especially if someone quickly declares love or wants to move communication off-platform.
Never send money or gifts: No matter how convincing the story is.
Don’t share personal photos or videos: They could be used for blackmail.
Verify identities: Do a reverse image search on profile pictures. Scammers often use stolen images.
Talk to someone you trust: If you’re unsure about an online relationship, ask a friend or family member for their opinion.
What it is: These scams promise huge returns with little or no risk, often targeting those looking for quick profits or trying to get into crypto. They may use social media influencers, fake testimonials, or impersonate financial advisors. Crypto scams in particular are booming due to the anonymous nature of digital currencies.
How it works: A common scam is the “giveaway” scheme: someone pretending to be Elon Musk or a crypto company offers to “double your Bitcoin” if you send them some. You never get anything back. Another scam might lure you into an “investment platform” where you see fake profits, encouraging you to invest more—until the site vanishes with your funds.
How to avoid it:
If it sounds too good to be true, it is: Guaranteed returns don’t exist in real investing.
Don’t trust influencers blindly: Scam accounts often impersonate real public figures.
Avoid pressure tactics: Scammers want you to act fast so you don’t think things through.
Research platforms thoroughly: Look for reviews, complaints, and regulatory information.
Use trusted exchanges: Stick to well-known, regulated crypto platforms for buying or trading digital assets.
Cybercriminals don’t need to break into your devices—they just need to break through your guard. And they do it by exploiting trust, urgency, and emotions. Staying informed is your best line of defense.
Here are some general best practices to keep you ahead of the curve:
Educate yourself and others regularly: Scams evolve quickly. Staying up to date can help you spot new tactics.
Keep software and devices updated: Patches fix security holes scammers often exploit.
Use strong, unique passwords: Password managers can help you create and store them securely.
Enable multi-factor authentication: Adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
Report scams: If you encounter or fall victim to a scam, report it to the FTC, IC3.gov, or your local law enforcement.
Scammers are relentless. But with the right knowledge and habits, you can outsmart them, protect your information, and keep your digital life secure.