Deceptive Tactics and Protecting Yourself from Scammers

Online scammers use a variety of deceptive tactics to exploit their victims, often preying on feelings of desperation and hope. Love scams, business scams, and other methods are used to extort money and personal information. This article aims to shed light on some common scams and how scammers gain from them, providing practical advice to prevent falling victim to these schemes.

Types of Common Scams

The internet and social media platforms have made it easier for scammers to reach potential victims. Lobbing for help, pretending to be in need of money for medical bills, or pleading poverty due to a lack of food are some of the common tactics used. Another popular scam involves individuals presenting themselves as business professionals, often retirees or recently unemployed, to gain trust and start the victim on a path of financial exploitation.

Love Scams

Love scams are specifically designed to manipulate victims into believing that they have a genuine connection, often leading to emotional manipulation and financial exploitation. These scammers pretend to be in need of trust and support, and may even claim to be widows or widowers with children who need financial assistance.

Example: One individual claimed to be a widow with two daughters attending boarding school in the UK. His supposed daughters would frequently contact the victim to share updates or ask for financial help. However, as time went on, these contacts became less frequent, and the claims of needing money for specific reasons (like computer meetings) began to sound increasingly suspicious.

Business Scams

Business scams often involve individuals pretending to be executives or professionals with access to funds to carry out projects. Responses to urgent financial needs, requiring immediate payment for various services or services yet to be rendered, are common tactics. They may claim to be stranded or unable to access money due to poor internet connection or some other fabricated excuse.

Example: In one instance, a scammer claimed to be working on an oil rig and mentioned they were having a computer meeting with their HR department, unable to contact anyone during this period. This ruse was designed to elicit pity and trust, and then to request a payment for a card to keep in touch.

Protective Measures and Common Sense

To protect yourself from scammers, it's important to be wary of unsolicited requests for personal information or money. Here are some tips:

Be cautious of any story that seems too good to be true or too urgent. Never send money, especially to someone you do not know or are not certain is legitimate. Do not share personal information, including financial details or names of family members. Use secure communication channels and ensure they are not being impersonated. Report any scams to relevant authorities or platforms, and block the individual or entity.

Remember, the primary aim of scammers is to make money. If they don't get it, they will often turn hostile and abusive, as illustrated in the case of the alleged scammer who used threatening language when requests for money were denied.

By staying alert and informed, you can effectively protect yourself from falling victim to these deceptive tactics.