Tanner Kirchhoff | Junior Lender | Lincoln Pioneers Branch
Fraudsters have become increasingly clever in their tactics, and one of their most common methods is sending suspicious links through emails, texts, social media, or even fake websites.
These links often lead to phishing scams, malware downloads, or fraudulent websites designed to steal your personal information or money. Fortunately, following a few simple steps can protect yourself from these scams.
Always Verify the Source
Before clicking on any link, take a moment to verify who sent it. Scammers often disguise themselves as trusted organizations like banks, social media platforms, or friends and family members. Double-check the sender’s email address, phone number, or social media account. Be wary of slight misspellings or odd domain names that can indicate a fake account.
Watch for Urgent or Fearful Language
Fraudsters often use scare tactics to get you to act quickly without thinking. Messages that create a sense of urgency, like “Your account has been compromised, click here to secure it!” or “You’ve won a prize, claim it now!” are red flags. These messages are designed to detour your judgment and entice you into clicking.
Tip: Legitimate companies will rarely ask you to provide personal information or click a link to fix an issue without allowing you to verify the problem through other secure channels.
Check for HTTPS in URLs
Secure websites start with “https://” rather than just “http://”. The “s” stands for secure, meaning the site encrypts your data. While HTTPS doesn’t guarantee the site is legitimate, it adds an extra layer of security. Never enter personal information or payment details on a site that doesn’t have HTTPS in the URL.
Update Your Security Software Regularly
Even the most cautious internet users can sometimes click on a malicious link. Keeping your antivirus and anti-malware software up-to-date protects your system from threats that might slip through the cracks.
Tip: Set your security software to update automatically to protect you against the latest threats.
Avoid Clicking Links in Unsolicited Emails or Texts
Beware of unsolicited emails or texts from unknown senders, as they are often used as a platform for phishing scams. Even if the message appears to be from a legitimate company, never click on links directly from the email. Instead, go to the official website by typing the address into your browser manually.
“Always think twice before clicking on any link, whether in an email, text, or social media. Be sure to protect yourself by verifying the source.”
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Even if a scammer gains access to your login credentials, they won’t be able to access your account without the second verification step. This can help prevent fraud even if you accidentally click on a malicious link.
Tip: For added security, use an authentication app rather than SMS, as SIM-swapping attacks can compromise text-based verification.
Be Wary of Pop-Up Windows
Some fraudulent websites will use pop-up windows that mimic legitimate requests for login information or payment details. Always close out suspicious pop-ups without entering any information, and never click links within these windows.
Fraudulent links are one of the most common ways cybercriminals attempt to scam individuals, but by staying aware and following these tips, you can reduce your risk of falling victim. Always be cautious, verify sources, and use the tools to ensure the links you click are safe. The internet can be dangerous, but with the right habits, you can navigate it securely and confidently.
For more fraud protection tips, click here.