Tips To Avoid Internet Scams

Each day, more and more scams surface through computers, tablets, cellphones, and other smart devices. To protect your personal information and to avoid being a victim of fraud, the following actions are recommended:

• Keep operating systems, browsers, programs, apps, and security components up to date.
• Be aware of the latest scam techniques being used by fraudsters. Search online to learn about current scams.
• Enable firewalls for your computer and router.
• Install an antivirus program for your computer, tablet, and smartphone that updates automatically.
• Create a guest network for visitors to your home to use, to avoid them having to access your home network.
• Don’t click or respond to emails, phone calls, or text messages from strange addresses and those with unusual subject lines.
• Update passwords often with a random, complex series of letters, numbers, and symbols; don’t use the same password on different sites. Consider use of a password manager. 
• Use only reputable sites when shopping online. Use a credit card instead of a debit card for greater financial protection. Don’t click on links or pop-ups, which can be a fake, look-alike website; instead, go directly to the shopping website.
• Adjust privacy settings on your devices, and for websites you visit for your best protection.  
• Regularly back up your data in case of a malicious attack, so you don’t lose access to your information and files. If you encounter a ransomware attack, file a report with the FBI.
• Avoid use of public Wi-Fi to prevent potential fraud and identity theft.
• Be cautious with your social media posts, especially information about children and teens. Don’t post personal information, vacation plans, work and home schedules, address or other contact information. Don’t “check in” at the locations you visit. 
• Be cautious about online gaming, which can result in identity theft, bullying, harassment and online predators. Children should use an avatar or nickname.

For additional information on avoiding online scams, click here.

Teaching Suggestions

• Have students search online for examples of recently-created online scams.
• Have students create a video, poster, or slide presentation with common email scams and actions to avoid those situations.

Discussion Questions 

1. What are some reasons that a person might become a victim of an online scam?
2. Describe actions to learn about new online scams.