How Can Everyday Device

TL;DR: Online scams can be tricky, but non-technical users of phones, tablets, and computers can protect themselves by learning a few simple rules. Always be suspicious of unexpected messages, calls, or offers that seem too good to be true. Never click on suspicious links, provide personal information, or allow remote access to your devices unless you are absolutely sure of the source. If in doubt, stop, check, and delete.

Understanding Online Scams: What They Are

Online scams are attempts by dishonest people to trick you into giving them money, personal information, or access to your devices. They use various tricks to make their requests seem real. These scams are not just for computers; they happen just as often on phones and tablets. For non-technical users, recognizing these tricks is the first step to staying safe.

Common Types of Scams to Watch For

• Phishing Messages: These are emails or text messages that look like they come from a trusted company, bank, or government agency. They often ask you to click a link to ‘verify’ your account, ‘update your details,’ or claim a ‘prize.’ The goal is to get your login information or install harmful software. For instance, you might get a text message that appears to be from your phone company, asking you to click a link because of a ‘billing issue.’
• Fake Tech Support: This scam often starts with a pop-up message on your computer or tablet screen saying your device has a virus, or you might get an unexpected call from someone claiming to be from a well-known tech company. They try to convince you to let them remotely access your device or pay for unnecessary ‘repairs’ or ‘software.’ A common scenario involves a pop-up warning that locks your screen, instructing you to call a specific phone number for help.
• Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: These scams promise huge returns on investments, lottery winnings you never entered, or incredibly cheap products. They often require you to pay a small fee upfront or provide banking details to ‘process’ your winnings or purchase. An example might be an email congratulating you on winning a foreign lottery, asking for your bank account details to transfer the funds.
• Impersonation Scams: Scammers pretend to be someone you know, like a family member, friend, or even a local police officer, often in an urgent situation. They might claim to be in trouble and need money quickly, or they might ask you for personal details to ‘confirm’ something. You might receive a text from an unknown number, claiming to be your child who lost their phone and needs money sent to a new number.

Simple Steps to Protect Yourself Online

Protecting yourself online doesn’t require technical expertise. It’s mostly about common sense and a bit of caution. Think of it like looking both ways before crossing the street – simple actions can prevent big problems.

Spotting the Warning Signs

• Unusual Requests: Be wary if someone asks for personal information (like passwords, bank details, or Social Security numbers) through email, text, or an unexpected call. Legitimate organizations rarely ask for this sensitive information in these ways.
• Pressure Tactics: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency, saying you need to act ‘now’ or face consequences. This is a common trick to make you rush and not think clearly. For example, a message might threaten to close your account if you don’t click a link within minutes.
• Bad Grammar and Spelling: Many scam messages contain noticeable spelling errors, awkward phrasing, or poor grammar. Professional organizations typically have well-written communications.
• Suspicious Links or Attachments: If a link or attachment in an email or text seems out of place, even if the message looks legitimate, it’s safer not to click it. Hovering your mouse over a link (without clicking) on a computer can often show you the real website address. On a phone or tablet, pressing and holding a link might reveal the full URL.

Practical Actions for Safety

• Pause Before You Click: Before clicking any link or opening an attachment, take a moment. Does the message make sense? Were you expecting it? If something feels off, it probably is.
• Verify the Sender: If you get a suspicious message from a company, instead of clicking a link in the message, go directly to the company’s official website by typing their address into your browser. Or, call them using a phone number you know is correct (from their official website or a bill), not a number provided in the suspicious message.
• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Use different passwords for different online accounts. A strong password combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager to help you keep track.
• Keep Software Updated: Regularly updating the software on your phone, tablet, and computer helps protect against known security weaknesses that scammers might try to exploit. These updates often include important security fixes.
• Be Wary of Unexpected Calls: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from tech support or a bank, and you didn’t initiate the call, be cautious. It’s okay to hang up and call the organization back using their official phone number to confirm if the call was legitimate.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you think you’ve encountered a scam, the best thing to do is to stop and disengage. Don’t feel embarrassed; scammers are very skilled at what they do.

• Don’t Engage: If it’s a call, hang up. If it’s a message, delete it. Do not reply, click links, or provide any information. Engaging further only tells the scammer that your number or email is active.
• Report It: Reporting scams helps authorities track them and warn others. In the U.S., you can report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Your local law enforcement agency may also be able to provide guidance.

By staying alert and following these simple tips, non-technical users can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to online scams on their phones, tablets, and computers. For more comprehensive guides on digital safety, Mike Potter Programming and Technology Solutions offers additional resources.

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