Online purchase scams remain the third most dangerous type of scams
As you ring in the new year it’s crucial to remain vigilant against scams with online purchase scams ranking as the third riskiest type of scam. In 2023, online purchase scams accounted for 41.9% of all reported scams worldwide. As you set your New Year’s resolutions, consider adding a few precautionary steps to keep the upcoming days and months fraud-free.
Be cautious with email: Be wary of unsolicited emails from unknown senders. Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails.
Never send money to strangers: If you haven’t met someone in person, don’t send them money.
Research before making online payments and purchases: Before entering payment information online, research the retailer.
Use your best judgment when sharing personal information: Sharing sensitive personal information with scammers can lead to identity theft. Never share financial information, birthdate, address, Social Security/Social Insurance number, or Medicare number with unsolicited callers.
Create strong, unique passwords for each account: Using strong, varied passwords across accounts makes it harder for fraudsters to access multiple accounts if one is compromised.
Enable two-factor authentication: Adding this layer of security to accounts, especially those involving finances or personal data, greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
Be social media smart: Use privacy settings on social media and only connect with people you know. Be cautious about including personal information in your profile, and never reveal your address or other sensitive information.
Regularly check your financial statements: Reviewing bank and credit card statements regularly can help you catch unauthorized transactions early.
Keeping up-to-date with the latest scams is essential for safeguarding yourself against fraud. By staying aware of new and evolving scam tactics, you can more effectively identify and avoid fraudulent activities. It’s important to remain vigilant and regularly consult trusted sources for updates on scam trends. Check out the articles below to learn more.
Avoiding and Reporting Scams
https://consumer.ftc.gov/scams
FBI Warns- These holiday shopping scams could ruin your 2024
https://www.forbes.com/sites/larsdaniel/2024/12/03/fbi-warning-online-holiday-shopping-scams-could-ruin-your-2024-season/
Let’s be careful out there!
The PJ Networks Team
