It is easier for criminals to create websites that look identical to the real deal. Brand websites are being cloned to steal from you. You need to be much more careful now.
FROM Malwarebytes:
- Before completing any payment, always review the “Pay to” details or transaction summary. If no merchant is named, back out and treat the site as suspicious.
- Use an up-to-date, real-time anti-malware solution with a web protection module.
- Do not follow links posted in comments, on social media, or in unsolicited emails to buy a product. Always follow a verified and trusted method to reach the vendor.
When you are conned out of your ID information or passwords, usually the next step is loss of money. A criminal who has your email address can create accounts that cost you money. In some cases, that money cannot be retrieved.
My best advice to anyone who goes online, uses social media or email:
- SLOW DOWN
- READ CAREFULLY
- QUESTION THE “DEALS”
- DON’T SHARE YOUR INFORMATION ONLINE
- DOUBLE CHECK, TRIPLE CHECK
- IF YOU SUSPECT, DISCONNECT