Criminals exploit misfortune and health crises to advance their schemes. The coronavirus outbreak has shown that there are no limits to the imagination of cybercriminals, who use the crisis to commit fraud and deception across the internet. Online scams have surged as email and mobile messaging rise with greater social media and internet use during quarantine and the new normal. This piece highlights the ten most common online scams so readers stay vigilant and avoid being tricked.
Tips to address the coronavirus spike in scams follow a simple rule: there are no magic cures or guaranteed safety online. During Covid, countless WhatsApp messages spread links to pages claiming expert advice or solutions. These messages often hide malicious links or attempts to collect data or demand payment in exchange for supposed help. Stay cautious and verify any offered assistance before clicking.
Fake letter from Social Security warned by the Civil Guard
Social networks abound with messages urging readers to donate or say thanks to healthcare workers. Some requests ask for personal information or money. In many cases this is merely a trick to harvest data from many users at once. Readers should treat such schemes with suspicion and verify through official channels before sharing anything.
Not every solidarity request circulating online is genuine. It is important to remain vigilant, compare information, and avoid sharing sensitive data or money without confirmation.
There is a scam via SMS claiming to be SEPE
Phishing remains one of the internet’s oldest tricks, now preying on pandemic concerns. Cybercriminals impersonate trusted institutions such as health authorities or social services and push a link that asks for personal data. The urgency of the message can cause hasty decisions that expose financial data. Always pause, assess the source, and avoid clicking on suspicious links. Cases shared on social networks show how quickly these tactics spread and how easily victims can be misled.
Classical e-fraud has adapted to coronavirus. A common approach is email phishing from a supposed hospital or official body urging a test or favorable action via a link. Never click on unexpected prompts and verify through official sites or trusted channels.
Phishing: the relentless cyber danger
Phishing remains a top threat. Fraudsters impersonate reputable institutions to gain trust and access personal data. They may use Covid related themes to increase relevance. In many cases, the scam arrives by email, falsely promising urgent actions that require clicking a link.
Smishing expands phishing to text messages. A message from a government or health authority directs readers to a link requesting personal information. The requested details are framed as a process for a coronavirus related permit, but the aim is data theft. The rapid pace of these messages makes them easy to fall for, so readers must proceed with caution.
There are publicized reports of real incidents where social media users exposed these tricks, underscoring the need for skepticism about unsolicited offers and urgent requests.
Fraud in the sale of medical supplies
Masks and other medical products became essential during the pandemic. Scammers seized the moment by selling counterfeit or subpar items online. Victims may receive products that do not match the advertised quality or may not receive items at all after payment. When shopping online for protective gear, buyers should verify seller legitimacy and review product specs carefully.
Crimes around coronavirus infected files
Opening video files or documents with warnings about protecting against Covid can be risky. These attachments may carry ransomware or computer malware. The best rule is not to trust every attachment and to avoid downloads from unfamiliar sources.
These threats can arrive by email, text, or social apps. Keeping devices updated and using reputable security software greatly reduces risk.
Government style scams offering corona checks
Online scams sometimes claim that a government check has been issued to help cope with the health crisis. These messages typically urge users to click a link to claim funds. They are false. Before clicking any link, readers should confirm the source using official government channels or trusted profiles and sites.
Fake job offers
Job seekers face multiple fraud attempts online. Scammers may post fake job ads related to medical supplies or require prepayments or sensitive data. If any detail looks off, verify through official company channels and avoid sharing credentials with unknown entities.
When faced with suspicious offers, take time to review all details, compare information, and decline if anything seems unusual. Choose to interact only with recognized, legitimate portals when pursuing employment.
Remote work computer support scams
With more people working from home, bogus tech support calls have increased. A scammer may request access to devices or credentials, installing malware or extracting data without the user realizing it. Treat unsolicited help requests with skepticism and verify the source independently.
Fake free coupons
Promotions promising free streaming services or discounts persist. They often ask for personal details or a small payment to claim an offer. Always check the URL, and when unsure, visit the official site directly to confirm any promotion before sharing data.
References and guidance for consumers in Canada and the United States emphasize cautious online behavior. When in doubt, verify with official channels and avoid sharing sensitive information from unsolicited messages.