With online payment becoming the norm, it is possible to carry out transactions in no time. However, this ease of payment has also emerged as a double-edged sword, as several online scams exploit innocent people every day. In this scenario, users need to be extremely cautious while communicating with strangers online or making digital payments, even to seemingly trustworthy payees. Here are some online money-making scams one should watch out for.
Voice recording scams
With technology, it is possible to record the other person’s voice over the phone and manipulate it for money. Specifically, scammers use a software application to create a deep-fake version of the recorded voice, which is used to impersonate the individual to extract their information and access their investments or insurance policy details. Not answering unknown calls is the best way to avoid such scams. If the person still wants to connect, they may do so over messages.
Donation scams
Genuine donations can open up a whole new world for certain individuals and communities. On the other hand, donation scams can exploit philanthropists in the pretext of helping others. Charity scammers are usually well-trained to elicit empathy and masquerade as registered charitable organizations. Many people end up believing their words and donate large amounts without even verifying the organization’s credibility. So, if an organization calls up requesting for money, one should verify the source immediately. It is important to ask for the organization’s website or any other proof that it is indeed legitimate.
Fitness scams
Setting fitness goals is easy, but working hard towards them requires dedication. Taking the easy way out is often tempting, and fitness scammers exploit this tendency. They may lure individuals into buying products they claim are effective in burning calories, ensuring healthy skin and hair, building muscle mass, etc. Some scammers even convince fitness enthusiasts to sign up for gym memberships or online fitness classes at extremely low prices, taking their card details and emptying their bank accounts. When it comes to fitness, the best way is maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. All other shortcuts are most likely scams.
Job opportunity scams
Everyone is looking for that one breakthrough that can make them wealthy and successful. And while there are several genuine opportunities, the ones that seem too good are probably not true. Many scammers may ask individuals for a lump-sum amount to secure the job or expect them to sign bonds. They often justify these demands as necessary for training employees for the role. In the process, many individuals also end up sharing personal information with the scammer. Regardless of the salary and opportunity prospects, one should verify the credibility of any company or caller offering jobs. In any case, jobs asking for money or involving bonds may not be the best companies to work with.
Scammers are always looking for opportunities to exploit genuine persons’ vulnerabilities. As a general rule, one should never trust any unknown caller or online source without verifying their credibility and ask for help if needed.
