5 Tips to Avoid Online Scam

Online transactions have proven to make sending and receiving information easier than ever before. However, like most things in life it is not perfect. Scammers can take advantage of this to try to steal your personal  information. Often this involves scams called 'phishing' and 'spoofing'.

What is Phishing?

It is when an online scammer reproduces the appearance of a legitimate website to trick you into giving them sensitive data. 

What is Spoofing?

It is when a fraudulent email sender hopes to have you respond to an email made to look like it is from a legitimate company.

Both goals are the same—to lure you into revealing your details, such as bank and credit card details. They may combine these two scams to make a convincing lie that can easily make you a victim.

Here are five scam tips for avoiding online traps:

1. Check the Web Address (or URL).

Communications from popular social websites and online payment processors are commonly used to lure in the unsuspecting public. The website address may closely resemble the legitimate website. It usually looks outdated, uses old/altered logos, has grammatical and spelling mistakes, and many more. It might also include links to take you to a false website.

2. Don't share your Confidential Details.

To prevent your personal information from being taken by false websites, you should not share your personal, financial, or credit card information with little-known or suspected websites. If they insist on getting your details, back off the transaction immediately.

3. Protect Your Password

It is important to keep your password confidential at all times. Don't give out your password to other individuals easily, especially online. And don't use the same password for multiple accounts.

4. Protect your computer and phone

Do not visit untrusted websites and download anything from them. These untrusted websites usually carry viruses or malicious programs that may harm your computer and mobile phone. Keep these programs, apps, browsers, and antivirus software up-to-date for optimal protection.

5. Be Vigilant and Act Immediately.

Always verify everything you receive— emails, text messages, and phone calls. You may also check your transaction, including history details and statements. But if you think you have been a victim of an online scam. Notify the companies you have accounts with immediately to avoid further harm.

Everything can be faked and made to look legitimate, including websites, emails and caller IDs. Be sure to think twice before clicking anything suspicious. 

At The Nail Bar, we will never ask for your bank or credit card and will only provide official links and announcements via our official page and website.

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