A growing and alarming trend online is the evolving activities of online scammers. Whether you’re buying something online, starting a job, or looking for free stuff; you could be the next victim of a scammer. Scammers are hiding on the internet and many don’t even know they’re being scammed until it’s too late. The best way to avoid being scammed online is to learn how to recognize a scammer before they can strike.
Red flags to recognize a scammer
- Red flag #1: If someone asks you for help with a big financial problem, but you don’t know them well, it’s likely a scam.
- Red flag #2: If someone is asking for money before you’ve met with them in person, that should be considered a red flag.
- Red flag #3: Don’t believe someone if they say they can give you a lot of money or a loan in return for putting down some cash to “reserve” the spot.
- Red flag #4: If you meet someone online and they’re constantly asking for help financially but have no other signs of interest in your life or contacting you when they don’t need money, it’s probably a scam.
- Red flag #5: If someone tells you their family member has fallen ill and needs money immediately, be suspicious. Crowdfunding websites like GoFundMe are more accountable than random people on the internet.
- Red flag #6: If someone sends you a check and asks you to send back part of it, this is likely a scheme to get information about your bank account.
- Red flag #7: If the person says something like, “I’m not looking for a relationship right now,” but then asks you to send them money so they can come to visit you, that’s also a scam.
- Red flag #8: If someone tells you they want to commit to working with you, but first need money upfront, be wary. This indicates they don’t want to commit to the relationship until they get their end of the deal fulfilled first.
The internet is full of scammers, crooks, and con artists looking for just one thing: a quick payday. Even the most careful internet user can be taken in by a scammer looking to make a quick buck. Learning how to recognize the red flags of an online scammer is a necessary step to protect yourself against losing your hard-earned money.
If you’ve been the victim of an online scam, Active Intel Investigations is your professional resource for online scam investigation and asset search investigation. Learn how we can help investigate your case or check out our YouTube channel for professional investigative resources.
Want to discuss your situation with one of our investigators? Set up a no-obligation consultation through TelaClient.com!
