Scammers are always coming up with new tricks to steal your money, but knowing which scams to look out for can help you outsmart them. Don't be surprised by the incredible offers. If something sounds too good, it probably is. Don't be fooled by 'free' airtime or shopping coupons
Beware of anyone in the mall or on the street claiming to be a representative of a popular brand and offering airtime, data, shopping coupons, etc.
These scammers use brand names and logos of well-known companies and products to make their offers look legitimate and trustworthy. You will be asked to provide sensitive personal or banking information such as your ID number, bank account number, PIN, etc.
What Is A Scam?
A scam is a deceptive scheme or trick used to trick a person into doing something, especially for money. Researchers from Kaspersky Security Services show that there are new cyber threats for large companies and governments to prepare for.
As part of the latest security bulletin, a security services company announced that hackers will continue to cause harm to individuals and businesses. "This not only threatens privacy, but also the reputation of the company," the law firm said. Emerging threats include cybercriminals using the media to blackmail organizations, reporting suspected data breaches, and gaining initial access to previously compromised businesses on the dark web.
Other threats include the rise of malware-as-a-service models and cloud-borne attacks.
The South African Banking Risk Information Center (SABRIC) noted that in early 2022, cybercrime is growing at an alarming rate across the country.
South African businesses are estimated to lose about R250 million annually to phishing attacks and internet fraud. Additionally, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) recognizes that cybercrime and the increased use of new technologies are growing threats to the country's banking industry.
Online Scams To Look Out For In 2023
With the rise of technology, this has caused an increase in online scammers.
1. Phishing
Cybercriminals have been able to lure millions with phishing attacks over the past few years, costing phishing victims more than $54 million in 2020. Luckily, you don't have to be like that if you know how this form of online scam works and how you can protect yourself.
Cybercriminals send emails that appear to come from legitimate sources such as banks, social networking sites, or online stores. They are tricked into clicking malicious downloads or links from fraudulent websites. Cybercriminals install malware or use stolen credentials to steal sensitive information.
Signs of online fraud:
emergency sound Spelling and grammatical errors Requests with threat of economic impact Incorrect logo Tips to prevent online fraud: If you are not sure whether the email is legitimate, please go directly to the company's official website.
2. Ransomware
For example, a successful phishing scam can infect your computer with malware known as ransomware. Once installed, cyber thieves can encrypt your files and demand a ransom, usually in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. And with ransomware losses projected to hit $265 billion by 2031, knowing how to protect yourself is in your best interest.
Signs of online fraud: Suspicious email attachments or files. Tips to prevent online fraud: Always back up your data, download antivirus software and be warned of possible infections.
3. Scareware
Scareware comes in many forms, but perhaps the most common of these Internet scams is fake antivirus software. Usage: A pop-up will appear warning you about a virus that has infected your device. It then suggests fixing the infection with “free antivirus” software. This software is indeed fake and is used to install malware that can steal sensitive information.
4. Grandparents Scams
Older people are more vulnerable when it comes to the Internet. And online scammers are well aware of this, using their caring and loving nature in their grandparent scams.
This internet scam works by sending urgent messages or emails to grandparents pretending to be their grandchildren in need of financial assistance. They may say they are abroad and need money to buy a last-minute train ticket or need money to help pay an unexpected hospital bill.
Signs of online fraud:
SMS or emails from unsaved numbers Requesting an inappropriate amount of money from a loved one Tips to prevent online fraud: Avoid taking immediate action and do your best to verify your grandson's identity by asking specific questions that only he knows.
5. Lottery Scam
Lottery scams can be considered a subcategory of phishing scams. Usage: Emails can claim to have won large cash prizes, free trips to exotic destinations, or other great prizes.
The message indicates that you only need to pay a small fee to claim your trip or winnings. After paying those fees, I never heard from the organization again.
Signs of online fraud:
Win prizes for not participating Prices that seem too high Payment is required to receive prizes. Tips to prevent online fraud: Never click on unexpected pop-ups or links from too-good emails.
There are many online scams and the list goes on and on.
Be Safe
Do not share personal information. For example: ID number or home address
Keep your bank details confidential. For example: PIN, account number, card number
Do not give your phone or device to anyone else to activate the coupon.
Glow App Security Features And Fraud Prevention
When it comes to sending and receiving money, security is paramount and our world-class cybersecurity experts implement the highest standards.
Here are some of the security features that Glow apps provide to protect your transactions:
End-to-end encryption
Cash transactions should be secure at the highest level. All Glow App transactions are protected with end-to-end encryption. This means that your personal and financial information is protected throughout the trading process.
Pin Protection
You can set a PIN code to protect your account in the app. This means that only you can access your account, and your money is safe from unauthorized access even if your phone is stolen or lost.
Biometrics
The Glow app also offers biometric authentication. This means you can access your account using your fingerprint or facial recognition. This provides an extra layer of transaction security.
24/7 fraud monitoring
The Glow app has fraud detection logs that monitor all transactions 24/7. This allows you to quickly identify and fix suspicious activity.
Conclusion
The old tricks of scammers have been outlined. You now understand what a scam is and how to identify one. The possible scams you should look out for in 2023 have been mentioned. The online do's and don'ts have been explained. What sets the Glow App apart has been highlighted. The security of the app is guaranteed to give you peace of mind when roaming online. That is why we encourage you to join the hundreds of South Africans who are waiting in line for this incredible app. Join the waitlist and enjoy a lifetime MAHALA account.