Protecting Yourself From Online Scams! 💸🔒

Nowadays, we use the internet for EVERYTHING. You name it, and we use it with the internet. But while being online is really helpful, it also makes it easier for scammers to trick people! Read more to find out!

Online scams are becoming more common every year! Specifically the social media that teens us all the time. That is why is it important to know how to spot scams before they become a problem 👀

A lot of the scams look real at first glance, but we have to do our own research to identify if it is legit or not.

Scammer know how to make fake messages, websites, and even accounts that are convincing. Their main goal is to steal your money, passwords, banks or even people you know.

Even clicking the wrong link can risk you identity👆

One of the most common scams are the infamous giveaways. You've probably seen posts like 'Free Giveaways' or 'Claim Your Free Gift Card!' These scams usually ask you to click the link and provide information or send money for 'shipping'/ Real giveaways don't ask for private information or payments to win a prize.

Fake Jobs Technique🥸

Fake job scams are also becoming more common. Since many teens are looking for part time jobs or internships, scammer create fake job offers that promise high pay and easy work. Sometimes they ask for bank information immediately or make people pay for 'training' before starting.

Real jobs do not ask you to 'pay' to get hired. Always doing your own research is the best way to stay safe.

Phishing Scams💬

Another major online danger is phishing scams. Phishing is when scammer send fake email, texts, or even DMs pretending to be trusted companies or apps. For example, you might get a message saying your account is locked and you need to log in immediately, this is a clear sign of a scam. The link usually leads to a fake website that steals you passwords. Before clicking on ANY links, make sure it is actually REAL. 🔍

Money App Scams

Money apps like Venmo, Paypal, Cash App, and Zelle can also be risky if you are not careful. Others might send fake payment screenshots to ask you to 'refund' money they never actually sent. It is safest to only send money to people you trust. 📱

Protecting Your Personal Information

This is one of the best ways to stay safe online. Try not to share things like passwords, addresses, phone numbers, or banking information online unless you fully trust the source. Using strong passwords and turning on a 2 fact authentication can also help keep your accounts secure. ℹ️

Key Takeaway ⭐

There are usually warning signs when something is a scam.

• Pressures you to act quickly

• Asks for money or personal information

• Has weird grammar or spelling mistakes

• Comes from an unknown account

• Sounds too good to be true

The internet can be an amazing platform but it's important to stay alert and careful online. Learning how scams work can help protect your money, your accounts, and personal info. A few extra seconds of checking before clicking can save you from a HUGE problem later. 🧠

Upcoming for Next Week 📆

Everyone knows the next big step after high school is college, but not everyone knows what is actually costs in the

long run 🎓

Next week, I'll be breaking down the difference between college and student debt and why it matters more than most people realize.

We'll look at how college expenses really add up, what student loans actually mean, and how borrowing money for school can affect your future 💰

Until then,

KAS