The top internet scams to be aware of in 2023

Scams on the internet are constantly changing. In 2022, the FBI recorded losses from internet crimes of more than $10.2 billion. 

Con artists from all over the world are probably currently aiming for a computer or mobile device close to you. Here are some of the most typical internet scams and some precautions you can take to protect your wallet and personal information.

Disaster Relief Scams

Whether it's a pandemic or a natural disaster, fraudsters always strike when trouble arises. Scammers typically take advantage of a tragedy or natural disaster to con you out of your money while disguising themselves as an actual aid organization. You unknowingly provide credit card information or other e-payment information by believing you are making a donation to an emergency relief fund.

Phishing Scams

You get an email that appears to be from a well-known company that you trust, like your bank, school, or favorite retailer. The message sends you to a website, typically to verify personal data like passwords and email addresses, where it steals your information and leaves your computer vulnerable to attack by scammers.

One of the most typical attacks on consumers is the phishing scam. In 2022, 300,497 people fell for phishing scams, according to the FBI. They lost $52.1 million altogether, or about $173 each.

Tech Support Scams

You get a call, email, or pop-up warning that your computer is infected with this scam. The con artist then:

• Requests that you install a program so they can remotely control your computer.
• Or otherwise leads you to believe that something is wrong by downloading a virus.
• claims to be able to fix the issue for a fee

Search engine results are another way to get in touch with you: Tech support scammers put a lot of effort into getting their websites to appear in search results online or they create their own ads. These con artists frequently demand payment via a bank wire, gift card, or money-transfer app.

Fake Antivirus Software

Ads and pop-ups for fake antivirus software attempt to convince you that your computer is infected with a virus (or several viruses), and that you can solve the issue by downloading their software. They are also known as scareware. They do this in two different ways:

• They get hold of the data on your credit card.
• Access to your computer is gained by them. Instead of antivirus software, you get a virus, malware, or ransomware when you click the download link.