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.
- Use secure, trackable transactions when making payments for goods, services, taxes and debts.
- 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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