How to Avoid Online Scams

Learn the warning signs of online scams and protect yourself from fraudsters and identity thieves.

Steps

1
Ignore unsolicited messages
from strangers offering money, prizes, or deals. Scammers often contact you first by email, text, or social media.
2
Do not click links in suspicious messages
even if they look real. Hover your mouse over the link to see the true destination before clicking.
3
Never share personal information
like your Social Security number or bank details with someone who contacted you. Legitimate companies do not ask for this by email or text.
4
Watch for urgent language
that pressures you to act fast. Scammers say "act now" or "account suspended" to make you panic and skip careful thinking.
5
Verify before you pay
by researching the company and reading reviews. Scammers demand payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.

What are the most common online scams?Show

Phishing emails, fake shopping websites, romance scams, tech support calls, and prize scams are the most common types.

What should I do if I fall for a scam?Show

Contact your bank right away, change your passwords, file a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and freeze your credit.

Does the government guarantee money from online contests?Show

No, legitimate contests do not ask you to pay a fee to claim a prize. That is a common scam tactic.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated May 18, 2026.