Social Media scams

Since the advent of COVID-19 we are spending a great deal of time online.

We work, buy, and of course, socialize there.

That’s all well and good but the time we are spending on social media has gained the attention of scammers.

Scams starting on social media, and the amount of money lost, are skyrocketing.

People are being scammed most often with online shopping, romance, employment, and income-opportunity scams. About 94 percent of the victims say they fell into the trap on either Facebook or Instagram.

With holiday shopping about to be in full swing, the Better Business Bureau has compiled some tips to help you avoid becoming a victim to these cons.

With online shopping- before you buy based on an ad or post, check out the company at BBB.org. Also, Google the company name along with the word “scam” or “complaint”.

Need financial help- if you get a message from a friend about a way to get some much-needed money, call them. Did they forward the message to you? If not let them know their account has been hacked.

Don’t give scammers a heads-up. Be careful with what you post about yourself, family, or friends. Also check your social media privacy settings.

Be cyber-smart.

Use a good antivirus program.

Examine the address of incoming emails carefully, especially from unfamiliar sources.

Don’t click on or even retype links in unsolicited messages.

Don’t open attachments unless you’re expecting them.

Be suspicious of all digital requests for a payment or transfer of funds.

If you’re being pressured to take urgent or immediate action-don’t.

I hope these tips help you. We’ve got enough going on right now without having to deal with scammers trying to swindle us.

Be aware and stay safe.

See you out there.