10 Tips for Avoiding a Scam
Staying safe from scams and identity theft is important. Protect yourself and your personal information with these helpful 10 tips for avoiding a scam.
- Never send money to someone you have never met face-to-face.
- Don't click on links or open attachments in unsolicited email or text messages.
- Don't believe everything you see. Scammers are great at mimicking official seals, fonts, brands and other details. Just because a website or email looks official does not mean it is. Even Caller ID can be faked.
- Don't buy online unless the transaction is secure. Make sure the website has an "https" in the URL (the extra "s" is for "secure") and a small lock icon on the address bar. Even then, the site could still be shady. Research the company first at BBB.org.
- Be extremely cautious when dealing with anyone you've met online.
- Never share personally identifiable information with someone who has contacted you unsolicited.
- Don't be pressured to act immediately.
- Never purchase gift cards to pay for an item because some one told you to. Legitimate businesses will not require payment by gift card. Also, the IRS and other government agencies will not EVER require payment by gift card. .
- Whenever possible, work with businesses that have proper identification, licensing, and insurance.
- Be cautious about what you share on social media.
Learn more at BBB.org/AvoidScams.
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