Six Tips That Can Help You Avoid Falling Victim Of Online Scams

The age of the Internet and social media means we share a lot of personal information online, including credit card numbers and social security numbers which exposes us to online scams. Know how to protect yourself from scams and hackers.
Stay Up to Date
there is a need for you to install anti-virus software on your computer and keep it updated. Also, make use of the latest version of your web browser. Install security patches and software updates as soon as they are ready to install.
Beware of Fake Online Sweepstakes and Contests
All offers that require payment or private information before giving an award or gifts are fake and bogus. Take a few minutes to check out the validity of an offer.
Ask for contact information from the sender and details about the company running the contest. The minute you start asking a lot of questions and make it clear you won’t be pushed to make an immediate decision, most scammers will go away.
Report Any And Every Scam
If you’re a victim of online fraud, contact the authorities. Also contact your local police to file a report. The more people who report such crimes, the more criminals are arrested.
Safe Guard Your Personal Information
It is essential that you never respond to requests for personal or account information either over the phone or online. When your bank verification number (BVN) is requested as an identifier, ask if you can provide alternate information.
There is a need for you to be on the lookout for Watch out for convincing imitations of banks, card companies, charities and government agencies. Be sure to use legitimate sources of contact information to verify requests for information, such as the official number and website of your financial institution.
Avoid Oversharing
Don’t divulge your birth date, mother’s maiden name, pet’s name or any other information that you use in identifying yourself on social media websites such as Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter.
If you have done this, simply look through your profile now and delete any personal information that you find.
Be Wary Of The “Work at Home” Hype
Thoroughly conduct a background check on the company offering you a work-at-home position. Make as many phone calls and Internet searches as you can. If you are in doubt, visit a local law enforcement office and ask their opinion.
All offers to earn money for re-shipping goods sent to your address are bogus. Unfortunately, some work-from-home scams not only enlist the individual to defraud others, they also make an identity fraud victim out of the individual! Be cautious and don’t be greedy