The Ultimate Guide to Protecting and Avoiding Internet Scams

At present, scams applied over the Internet have evolved in many ways.

In Brazil, according to the Seras Experian Fraud Attempt Indicator, every 7 seconds someone is the target of an attack.

Music producer Afonso Nigro recently had his Instagram account hacked and the bandits inserted several ads for furniture, iptv listshousehold appliances and electronic devices that they try to sell to their followers.

Coup d’état has become common and the format is almost always the same. A hacked account, ads inserted as a way to “dismiss” and incredible prices that are impossible to ignore.

But a dream can turn into a nightmare. Therefore, we will state 05 ways to prevent hackers common in this digital realm and how you can increase your security against hackers and online fraudsters.

The most common scams in the digital environment

There are many incidents involving fraudsters on the Internet, and among them we can mention some of the most common frauds:

1. Hackers access accounts on Instagram;
2. Card information has been stolen and cloned;
3. Malicious viruses installed on computers;
4. False sales of products on olx;
5. Scams on whatsapp.

In general, fraudsters take advantage of the ignorance of users and carry out various frauds against the population, especially the elderly.

That’s why we at F5 Online have prepared complete material for you to protect yourself from attacks through these powerful tips against criminals.

Protecting your Instagram

In the past, fraud on Instagram was very rare, but in the last few years the number has increased significantly.

The attacks are always the same: fast and precise. Suddenly the account owner loses access to the profile and personal password recovery information is changed.

In this way, the owner of the profile cannot continue his personal profile.

Instagram itself is developing new methods for end users with such insecurity, but in the meantime you can follow these security steps on Instagram:

1. Have a complex password;
2. Avoid using date of birth;
3. Avoid strings of numbers;
4. Don’t bring in random devices;
5. Enable two-factor authentication

6. Use a secure email;
7. Do not click on malicious links in your email inbox;

One of the most common ways hackers try to access your account is through phishing scams. They’ll send you an email or text with a link that appears to be from Instagram and ask you to sign in through it.

If you click on the link, they will be able to access your account without any of your credentials. One way to avoid this is to use two-factor authentication, which ensures that even if someone has all of your information, they still can’t access your account because they’ll need another form of verification before they can log in.

Protection of your card data

Card data cloning is a serious problem that worries many people. The Internet is full of information on how to steal someone’s card information, and it is not difficult for thieves.

In order to steal card information, fraudsters only need to obtain a person’s card number, expiration date and security code. However, there are some ways to protect your data from theft.

Let’s see how to avoid such disorders?

1. Always check the website URL before entering your credit card information. If it looks suspicious or unfamiliar, do not enter any information on this page;
2. Use two-factor authentication when possible;
3. Check with your bank if they offer virtual cards;
4. Only search sites with SSL (Security Certificate) when you have to enter personal information such as your credit card.

Malicious viruses and malware

Computer viruses have always been a major threat to users browsing the Internet, malicious programs can cause irreparable damage to your computer and steal personal data and information.

Some people eager for free applications end up installing corrupted files on their computers which can cause serious damage to their computer.

Some niche markets like people who would like to perform iptv test and pirated search lists can very easily attract such malware to your computers.

We must protect ourselves from these viruses by using the right antivirus program and following some simple tips:

1. Install antivirus software on your computer. The best antivirus brands are Avast, McAfee and Norton;
2. Be careful when clicking on links or downloading files from unknown sources online;
3. Regularly update your operating system with the latest security patches and bug fixes to prevent hackers from attacking you through vulnerabilities in the operating system or applications installed on your computer;
4. Install a firewall that blocks unwanted content from entering your computer;
5. Keep all your software up to date with the latest patches.

Scams on OLX

Olx is a website that allows people to buy and sell goods to other people. The platform has become very popular in recent years, but the number of frauds within the platform has also increased significantly.

One of the most common scams on olx is when a seller offers something for a much lower price than the market price, and then asks the buyer to send money or pay in advance before receiving the item.

Victims can also often be attacked when they are trying to find an alleged buyer somewhere, and when they get there, they are completely surprised.

So be careful when booking with product delivery locations and always choose public places near the police.

Another scam that is gaining attention on OLX is the seller who brokers the sale and receives payment from the buyer. For example, the embezzler sells something that he does not have, and when the victim goes to the location or goes to the person to remove the product, the owner of the product simply did not receive the amount.

Avoid posting your number, home address and conversations outside the platform.

Whatsapp scams

WhatsApp is the most used messaging app worldwide. And it has been widely used by fraudsters to commit crimes.

They use the app to steal the number of the alleged victim and contact people in the directory asking for a certain amount with the promise of payment within a few hours.

Many victims state that due to the closeness and safe contact, in the end they have no malice that it could be a fraud.

The tip is: always call the person and confirm the situation over the phone.

Finally, remember that scammers use the Internet in their name and you should protect yourself.

In conclusion, always question yourself and step away from such situations. Our security when browsing the Internet can be exposed and little attention is paid.