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👋 Hey there! Today, we will talk about how to avoid being tricked by online scams! 🕵️♀️
PHISHING
🐟Phishing is when someone tries to steal your personal information by pretending to be a trustworthy source. It’s like a fisherman who uses bait to catch fish. They use a fake email or website to trick you into giving them your passwords, credit card numbers, or other private information.
🚫 Be careful when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar sources. Always double-check the URL and look for “https” or the lock icon to ensure it’s a secure website.
📌 Let’s say you receive an email from your bank saying your account has been compromised, and you need to reset your password by clicking on a link. Don’t click on the link! Instead, go directly to your bank’s website and reset your password from there.
HOAXES
🤡A hoax is when someone spreads false information to trick people. It’s like a prank that’s not funny. They might make up stories or share fake news to cause confusion or panic.
🚫 Check the source of the information and look for evidence to support it. Don’t trust everything you see or read online.
📌 Let’s say you see a post on social media claiming that there’s a new law that requires everyone to pay a tax on breathing. Don’t believe it! It’s just a silly hoax.
IMPERSONATION
🕵️♂️Impersonation is when someone pretends to be someone else online. It’s like a disguise that makes them look like someone else. They might create a fake profile or use deep fake technology to make it seem like they’re someone they’re not.
🚫 Be cautious when talking to strangers online, and don’t share personal information with people you don’t know. Use common sense and trust your instincts.
📌 Let’s say you receive a friend request from someone who claims to be your long-lost cousin. Don’t accept the request without verifying their identity first. You can ask them questions only your real cousin would know, or you can call your family to confirm if they really exist.
BAITING
🎣Baiting is when someone uses a tempting offer to lure you into a trap. It’s like baiting a hook to catch a fish. They might use click-bait headlines or free gift cards to get you to click on a link or fill out a form.
🚫 Don’t be too quick to click on offers that seem too good to be true. Look for red flags like misspelled words, unrealistic promises, or suspicious requests for personal information.
📌 Let’s say you receive a message on social media saying you’ve won a free trip to Hawaii. Don’t fall for it! They’re just trying to get your personal information.
SPOOFING
🤥Spoofing is when someone disguises their identity to deceive you. It’s like wearing a mask to pretend to be someone else. They might use fake caller IDs or email addresses to make it look like they’re someone they’re not.
🚫 Verify the identity of the person or organization before you share any sensitive information. Don’t trust unsolicited emails or phone calls, especially if they ask for money or personal information.
📌 Let’s say you receive a call from someone claiming to be from the IRS and saying you owe back taxes. Don’t give them your credit card number or Social Security number. The IRS would never contact you this way.