5 common
online scams

The internet is a wonderful place for shopping, socializing, and staying informed.

Unfortunately, it's also a hotspot for scammers. Verizon Security Advisor experts work hard to keep you and your tech safe. But cybercriminals are constantly devising new ways to trick people out of their money and personal information. To help you stay vigilant, we put together this list of the most common scams, including red flags to keep an eye out for and tips to stay secure online. 


1. Phishing Scams


Red Flag: Unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal information.

Phishing scams involve fraudsters sending emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate companies, like your bank or an online service, to trick you into revealing sensitive information. These messages often contain urgent language to create a sense of panic, such as "Your account has been compromised!" or “Your package was unable to be delivered!” 


Safety Tip: Never click on links or download attachments from unsolicited emails. Always verify the sender by contacting the company directly using a known and trusted method, such as their official website or customer service number.



2. Impersonation Scams


Red Flag: Urgent messages from friends or family asking for money, often claiming to be in trouble.

Impersonation scams occur when scammers get access to someone’s contact information and impersonates someone they know, pretending to be them. They usually claim there’s an emergency and ask for money. These messages often prey on emotion, and play up the urgency. 


Safety Tip: Always verify the authenticity of such messages by contacting the person directly through a different method. Never send money or personal information without confirming the situation. 



3. Fake Online Storefronts 


Red Flag: Unbelievable deals and discounts that seem too good to be true. 

Fake online stores are fraudulent websites that mimic legitimate retailers. These sites often offer luxury items at incredibly low prices to lure in unsuspecting shoppers. Once you make a purchase, you either receive a counterfeit item or nothing at all. 


Safety Tip: Before making a purchase, research the store. Look for reviews and verify the website’s legitimacy. Stick to well-known retailers and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.



4. Online Dating/Romance Scams 

Red Flag: Requests for money from someone you've met online, especially if you haven’t met in person. 

Online dating scams involve scammers creating fake profiles on social media profiles or dating sites and apps to establish relationships with their targets. After gaining their trust, they fabricate stories to solicit money, such as needing funds for a plane ticket or medical emergency. 


Safety Tip: Be cautious about sharing personal details with someone you haven’t met in person. Never send money to someone you’ve only met online. If something feels off, trust your instincts and do some research on the person. 


5. Tech Support Scams 

Red Flag: Unsolicited calls or pop-up messages claiming your computer is infected and offering immediate help, or prompting you to call a number immediately. 

Tech support scams involve scammers posing as tech support agents from well-known companies. They contact you via phone or through pop-up messages, claiming your computer has a virus and offering to fix it. They then ask for remote access to your computer or for payment information.  


Safety Tip: If you receive an unsolicited call or pop-up message about a virus, do not provide any personal information or allow remote access to your computer.  Contact the company directly using their official support channels, or reach out to a Verizon Security Advisor expert for next steps.

Always be cautious with unsolicited messages and offers, verify the legitimacy of websites and communications, and never share personal information or money without being sure of the recipient's identity. By using a little common sense (and proper cybersecurity), you can safely browse the internet without falling prey to cyber crooks.  

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