8. Security Alert Scam
Some scammers use their own bad PR to their advantage, capitalizing on peoples’ security fears by sending them alerts through email.
The email could appear to be from your bank, your credit card company, PayPal, etc. If you click on the link, the website looks right.
But, as soon as you type in your information, you’ve given the crooks everything they need to steal your money or your identity.
Here’s what you need to know. First, no legitimate company is going to send you an email that asks you to click a link to resolve security risks. Multiple links are another clue.
Scammers have found that, the more links they include, the more likely people are to click one of them. Another red flag is “Dear customer.” A legitimate company would know and use your name. And, last but not least: threats. A company that’s truly looking out for your welfare won’t try to scare you with threats. They’ll be apologetic, not intimidating.
It’s highly likely that any email you get about security issues is a scam. But if you’re worried and feel the need to check it out, don’t click on the link. Don’t copy and paste, either. If you know the address, type it in. If you don’t, just do a search for the name of the organization.