Internet Security- Popular Online Scams

Nobody wants to get hooked into a scam, but some of them are so clever that you can get caught up in them without even realizing that you are doing something that threatens your internet security.

So what are some poplar internet scams?

1. Cashier's checks. This is a new scam that is becoming popular, especially on craigslist. Let's say that you post something for sale. A person writes you, without seeing the item, and says that they want to purchase it. They offer you a cashier's check that is sometimes even over the amount that the price is set for. They even tell you to deposit it and to that they will wait until the money shows up before they pick up the item. The money shows up in your account, they get the item, and then suddenly, the bank calls. Turns out the check wasn't good to start with. To avoid this, only deal with local people. Never accept a check that is more than the amount. If possible, have your bank check out the cashier's check with the bank account that it was
drawn upon.

2. Online auctions. Although the sites might be legitimate, the products might not be. To protect  yourself, always purchase from a seller with positive feedback, make sure that it is a reputableauction site (like Ebay), understand the payment terms, use a safe payment method, and don't  accept cashier's checks for items.

3. Phishing. In this scam, someone writes you from a legitimate company, like a bank, and tellsyou that your information has been compromised. They then direct you to another site whereyou are asked to enter your personal information in order to protect everything. Don't fall for it.If it was for real, you would have received a phone call or something from the mail. To be onthe safe side, call the company by looking up the number in the phone book.

4. Disaster scams. A disaster strikes and the next thing you know, someone is writing you asking for donations. Look them up on the internet before you write a check.

5. Work scams. These can come in the form of work at home scams or scams in which the person tells you that they found your resume online and want to offer you a job. Never do anything that requires you to pay money upfront or provide your social security number of bank account number.

Internet Security- Popular Online Scams