Exposed: The Truth Behind the Viral Annual Visitor Survey Scam

Have you ever gotten an enticing pop-up offering prizes just for taking a website survey? Stop whatever you’re doing and read this now. These too-good-to-be-true offers are an incredibly sneaky new scam.

This detailed guide will explain everything you need to know about the Annual Visitor Survey scam sweeping the internet. Falling for this clever trap can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars before you realize what happened.

Keep reading and I’ll walk you through exactly how this devious ploy works. You’ll see what to watch for and why these realistic-looking surveys are total scams operating in plain sight…

Overview of the Annual Visitor Survey Scam

This alarming new online scam is deceiving thousands with convincing fake surveys and contests. Scammers are targeting unsuspecting internet users across the globe, from the US to Europe to Australia and beyond. Savvy readers like you need to learn exactly how this devious con works so you can avoid becoming the next victim.

The scam typically starts when you are browsing the web normally. Suddenly an official-looking pop-up appears, often claiming to be from a trusted company like Amazon, Google or Apple. The pop-up invites you to take a short visitor survey with the chance to win an amazing free gift card, tablet, or other hot item.

If you click through, you are taken to a professional-looking website branded with the company’s logo and standard colors. The website copy explains you have been specially selected to provide feedback in an annual survey. All you need to do is answer a few quick questions to enter the prize drawing.

So far, nothing seems amiss. You answer the 4-5 multiple choice questions about topics like your shopping habits and technology usage. After submitting your answers, a congratulations screen appears saying “You Won!” It looks like you were randomly chosen to receive an iPad, TV, gift card or other valuable prize.

This is where the scam really ramps up. The site says you need to provide some basic personal details so they can verify you are eligible to receive your prize. All standard stuff like name, address, phone number and email. You enter the info, getting more excited about your supposed free reward.

Finally, a screen pops up saying you just need to pay a small $1-$10 shipping and processing fee. This seems reasonable if it allows this generous company to send your prize for free. So you enter credit card details without thinking twice.

But within days, you notice unfamiliar charges from weird companies on your card statement, exceeding $100 or more per month. The small fee actually signed you up for expensive recurring subscriptions the scammers profit from. The prizes never arrive either. You’ve been duped by an elaborate ruse to steal your money in plain sight.

The Annual Visitor Survey scam spoofs countless major brands. Some examples you may encounter:

  • Amazon Customer Satisfaction Survey 2024
  • Apple Website Visitor Survey 2024
  • Official Google User Experience Survey 2024
  • Walmart Shopping Survey 2024
  • Costco Member Feedback Survey 2024
  • IKEA Customer Satisfaction Survey 2024

Scammers register lookalike domains like “amaz0n-usersurvey.com” or incorporate the brand name into the page text. This makes the fake survey sites appear authentic at first glance. Some even steal copyrighted logos and images illegally.

Screenshot of Costmeanwar.live Fake Survey

They tailor the survey questions to match each brand. For the fake Apple survey, questions focus on iPhones, MacBooks and using the App Store. The mock Amazon version asks about Prime memberships and online shopping habits.

While the survey content changes, the scam formula stays the same. You get duped into providing personal information under the false claim of receiving guaranteed rewards. In the Apple scam, they might say “Congratulations! You’ve been selected to win AirPod Pros!” For Amazon, it’s “You Won a $500 Gift Card!”

Once scam sites acquire enough credit card numbers, they charge hundreds in sneaky recurring fees and quickly vanish. Victims often suffer financial damage before realizing what happened. This scam is skyrocketing because scam sites can now be built with ease using online site builders and domain registration. Criminals also utilize spam networks to blast convincing pop-up ads everywhere.

Survey Scam 2 1

Do not trust any website offering unbelievable rewards or prizes for taking a survey. Verify legitimacy before clicking further. Type the company name plus “scam” into a search engine to check for warnings. And never pay upfront processing fees on free gifts. False promises of “free” iPads, TVs and gift cards should be automatic red flags.

Next, let’s analyze how this scam works from start to finish.

How the Annual Visitor Survey Scam Works Step-by-Step

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how the deceptive Annual Visitor Survey scam works:

Step 1: Enticing Pop-Up or Website

The scam starts with an enticing pop-up, advertisement or website. The scam pop-up or site uses branding that makes it look like an official survey from a trusted company. Common logos used include Amazon, Google, Walmart, BestBuy and Target.

The pop-up or site headline will say something like “Take Our Annual Visitor Survey for a Chance to Win Big Prizes!” Other examples include:

  • “Congratulations Amazon Visitor! Take Our 2024 Survey to Win a $1000 Gift Card!”
  • “You Have Been Selected for Our Official 2024 Visitor Survey. Complete to Win a New Samsung TV, iPad or AirPods!”
  • “2024 Walmart Visitor Survey – You Have Been Chosen for Our 2024 Survey With a Chance to Win Great Prizes!”

The purpose is to entice you to click and take the survey. The professional branding makes it appear 100% legitimate and official.

Step 2: Landing Page With Survey

Once you click the pop-up or advert, you are taken to a scam website dressed up to look like the official survey page. Everything from the domain name, branding, colors and wording is designed to look like the real deal.

You will see survey questions like:

  • How often do you visit this website?
  • What do you like most about our website?
  • How likely are you to recommend our website to a friend?

After answering a few basic questions, the page will say your survey responses are being “verified.” Next a pop-up will appear saying “Congratulations! You have been selected as today’s prize winner!” or something similar.

The scam website really wants you to believe you won an amazing prize just for taking a simple survey. This is just a tactic to reel you in further.

Step 3: Submit Personal Information

After telling you that you won a prize, the scam site will request personal details like your full name, address and phone number. The claim is they need this information to ship out your prize.

Since you believe you really won a gift card, TV or iPad, you are more than happy to provide your info. Unfortunately, this is exactly what the scammers want. Your personal details help them enroll you in expensive subscriptions.

Step 4: Pay Small “Shipping Fee”

Next, the scam website will ask for your credit card information under the guise that you just need to pay a small shipping, handling or processing fee. This is usually around $1-$10.

Since you already believe you are getting a brand new TV or iPad for free, paying a few bucks for shipping seems reasonable. However, this small fee is the catch that signs you up for steep monthly subscription charges.

Step 5: Monthly Credit Card Charges

After submitting your credit card details to pay the small shipping fee, the scammers have everything they need. They will use your card information to start billing your account for expensive subscription plans every single month.

These are always hidden in the fine print terms and conditions, which most people do not read. The monthly fees are usually around $100-$200 charged to your credit card repeatedly.

So while victims think they are just paying $5 shipping for a “free” prize, they are actually signing up to be charged hundreds of dollars over and over again. The scammers pocket the subscription money while sending you nothing in return.

How To Spot and Avoid the Annual Visitor Survey Scam

Here are some telltale signs to spot the Annual Visitor Survey scam:

Using Trusted Brand Logos Deceptively

Scammers will use official brand logos from companies like Amazon, Google, Apple or Walmart without permission to make their scam websites and pop-ups appear credible. The copy mimics a real offer from these brands, but it’s completely fraudulent. Never trust a website just because it has a familiar logo.

Offering Guaranteed Prizes or Rewards

Language like “Guaranteed Winner!” or “You Have Been Selected!” is meant to get you excited about prizes or money you can supposedly claim instantly. No legitimate sweepstakes or survey guarantees you will win. Be wary anytime you are singled out as a winner without even entering a real contest.

“Limited Time” Countdown Timers

Scam surveys use countdown timers to establish false urgency. They want to pressure you into providing your details fast before time runs out on the “amazing opportunity.” In reality, the timer is totally fake. Once it hits zero, it simply resets to countdown again. The scam never ends.

Requests for Personal Details Upfront

Before paying or entering any information, research who is requesting it and why. No survey needs your credit card, social security number, or copies of IDs just to ask your opinions. Providing sensitive information too early is a major red flag.

Mandatory Pre-Checked Boxes

Scam sites often have pre-checked boxes to authorize terms, purchases or information sharing by default. They know most people will not notice and uncheck them. Never sign up if you can’t review and check boxes yourself. Pre-checked boxes exist to force agreements.

Upfront “Shipping and Handling” Fees

Don’t pay any processing fees before you confirm an offer is legitimate. Small upfront charges for “shipping” or “taxes” on free gifts or prizes let scammers gain access to your payment details. Then they bill you repeatedly for subscription services you never approved.

Non-Working Policies, Links or Contact Details

If privacy policies, terms of service or contact pages don’t work, cannot be accessed, or have fake information, the website is not trustworthy. Genuine sites make it easy to review policies in detail before entering your data.

Stay vigilant for these sneaky tactics scammers use to make cons appear credible. When faced with unbelievable survey offers, err on the side of caution. Check everything thoroughly first rather than getting exciting about prizes that are too good to be true. If you avoid acting in haste, you can protect yourself and your finances.

What to Do If You Have Fallen Victim to the Scam

If you realize you have been tricked by the deceptive Annual Visitor Survey scam, take these steps right away:

  • Contact your credit card company: Immediately call your credit card company and explain you did not authorize recurring charges. Ask them to reverse any fraudulent charges and block future billings.
  • Watch for charges: Carefully monitor your credit card statements going forward to ensure no additional fraudulent charges appear from the scammers.
  • Review statements: Look back at previous credit card statements to see if you were already billed for any subscription fees without noticing. Have any unauthorized charges reversed.
  • Change card number: Consider requesting a new credit card number from your bank to fully prevent any future unwanted charges from crooks.
  • Close accounts: If the scammers got your usernames or passwords, change them right away. Close any online accounts that may have been compromised.
  • Beware “customer service”: If you call phone numbers listed on scam sites requesting help, you will just reach more scammers posing as customer service. Only call real customer support numbers listed on your credit card statements.
  • Report fraud: File reports with the FTC, IC3, BBB and online fraud databases so your experience is on record. This helps prevent the scam from claiming more victims.
  • Spread awareness: Share details about this scam on neighborhood apps and social media so friends and family know what to watch out for.

The earlier you act, the better chance you have of stopping fraudulent charges in their tracks and avoiding further headaches.

Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware

If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.  

Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.

Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android

Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware

Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.

  1. Download Malwarebytes for Windows

    You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.

    MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS DOWNLOAD LINK
    (The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
  2.  

    Install Malwarebytes

    After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.

    MBAM1
  3. Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes

    When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.

    • You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.

      MBAM3 1
    • Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.

      MBAM4
    • When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.

      MBAM6 1
    • On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.

      MBAM5 1
  4. Enable “Rootkit scanning”.

    Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.

    MBAM8

    In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.

    MBAM9

    Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.

  5. Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.

    To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.

    MBAM10
  6. Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.

    Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.

    MBAM11
  7. Quarantine detected malware

    Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.

    MBAM12

    Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.

    MBAM13

  8. Restart your computer.

    When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.

    MBAM14

Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.

If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future.
If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:

Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware

Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.

  1. Download Malwarebytes for Mac.

    You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.

    MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC DOWNLOAD LINK
    (The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Mac)
  2. Double-click on the Malwarebytes setup file.

    When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.

    Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes

  3. Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.

    When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.

    Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac

    Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac

    Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac

    When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.

  4. Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.

    The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
    Select Personal Computer or Work Computer mac

  5. Click on “Scan”.

    To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
    Click on Scan button to start a system scan Mac

  6. Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.

    Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
    Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan for malware

  7. Click on “Quarantine”.

    When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
    Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine to remove malware

  8. Restart computer.

    Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
    Malwarebytes For Mac requesting to restart computer

Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.

If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.
If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.

Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware

Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.

  1. Download Malwarebytes for Android.

    You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.

    MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK
    (The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)
  2. Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.

    In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.

    Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android

    When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
    Malwarebytes for Android - Open App

  3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process

    When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options.
    This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue.
    Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1
    Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step.
    Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2
    Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue.
    Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3
    Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
    Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4

  4. Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android

    You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.

    Malwarebytes fix issue

    Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.

    Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone

  5. Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.

    Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
    Malwarebytes scanning Android for Vmalware

  6. Click on “Remove Selected”.

    When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
    Remove malware from your phone

  7. Restart your phone.

    Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.


Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.

If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future.
If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:

Frequently Asked Questions About the Annual Visitor Survey Scam

1. What is the Annual Visitor Survey scam?

The Annual Visitor Survey scam is a deceptive form of online fraud that uses fake surveys and contests to trick users into signing up for unwanted recurring subscription charges. Scammers create official-looking websites using logos of trusted brands like Amazon, Google and Apple. The sites promise rewards like gift cards, iPads or TVs for taking a quick survey. But it’s just a ploy to steal your personal information and bill your credit card monthly for mystery subscription fees you never agreed to.

2. How does the Annual Visitor Survey scam work?

The scam starts with an enticing pop-up ad or website claiming you can win prizes by taking an annual visitor survey. The professional branding makes it look 100% legitimate. If you click through, you are taken to a convincing survey page. After answering a few questions, it says you won a reward. You then enter your personal info under the guise it is needed to verify eligibility and ship your prize. Finally, you are prompted to pay a small $1-$10 shipping fee, which actually signs you up for expensive monthly subscriptions exceeding $100 per month.

3. What tricks do scammers use?

Scammers use convincing logos, countdown timers, testimonials, urgent language and other tricks to pressure you into entering your details. Official-looking branding, websites and policies build a false sense of trust so you hand over your information willingly. Too-good-to-be-true offers of free gifts, iPads and TVs encourage excitement and cloud judgement. They make you feel you are taking advantage of an amazing opportunity when you are really falling into their trap.

4. What are signs of the Annual Visitor Survey scam?

Warning signs include an unbelievable offer, pop-ups taking over your screen, short timers creating false urgency, or upfront shipping fees for “free” prizes. Links not working, grammar errors and pre-checked boxes are other red flags. If a survey wants lots of personal information or asks you to pay before receiving your reward, it is likely a scam.

5. What information do scammers want?

Scammers mainly want your credit card details so they can charge your account for recurring monthly subscriptions. They will also harvest your name, email address, phone number, and sometimes even government IDs, social security numbers or photos of you holding your ID. This further enables them to steal identities or commit other fraud in your name.

6. What are symptoms of being scammed?

Unexpected charges from unfamiliar companies will appear on your credit card statements. You may also get billed for renewal fees, subscriptions, trials or services you never signed up for. Other symptoms include mystery packages showing up that you did not order or account emails for services you did not register for.

7. What are consequences of getting scammed?

Financial loss from unauthorized credit card charges is the biggest consequence, sometimes totalling thousands of dollars before victims realize what is happening. You are also at heightened risk of identity theft if scammers acquire your personal information. The scammers might sell or exploit your details for additional illegal activity.

8. What should you do if you already fell for the scam?

If you entered your information, take action immediately! Contact your credit card company to reverse the charges and block future billings. Change any passwords used on scam sites and close compromised accounts. Monitor your statements diligently for signs of fraud. Report the incident and be vigilant about sharing your story to warn others. The earlier you act, the better chance you have of limiting damages.

9. How can you avoid survey scams?

Avoid clicking pop-ups or ads promising sweepstakes, contests or surveys. Check site security for “https” URLs. Research unfamiliar offers even if they look official. Never pay upfront for a “free” gift. Read all fine print carefully before entering payment details. And remember – if it seems too good to be true, it always is. Trust your instincts and steer clear of anything pressuring you to act fast for guaranteed winnings.

10. How can you report survey scams?

Gather evidence then report the scam to the FTC Complaint Assistant, FBI IC3, BBB Scam Tracker, your local police and the real company impersonated. Add your experience to scam reporting sites like Fraud.org and Ripoff Report. The more people who report scams, the quicker authorities can build cases to shut them down. Reporting also gets your story on record in case your identity is compromised.

The Bottom Line on the Annual Visitor Survey Scam

The new Annual Visitor Survey scam preys on innocent people just looking to take a website survey. Using convincing branding and the lure of prize winnings, professional scammers trick users into signing up for expensive monthly subscriptions against their will.

If an offer seems too good to be true, it always is. There are no free TVs, gift cards or iPads. Be very cautious entering personal details, especially credit card information, into any unfamiliar website. Taking a few minutes to research offers thoroughly first can save you from subscription scams trying to steal your money.

Stay vigilant for telltale signs of fraud like rushed offers, countdown timers, pre-checked boxes and broken policy links. Never pay an upfront fee in exchange for a “free” gift. And always read the fine print terms and conditions before providing payment details. If someone truly wins a prize or sweepstakes, legitimate companies will never ask you to pay them first.

Share this article to help spread awareness about survey scams that lure in victims with promises of rewards then extort their credit card details to enroll them in expensive monthly subscription plans. Being informed is the best way to recognize and avoid sneaky subscription traps trying to steal your money. Don’t become the next victim of the deceptive Annual Visitor Survey scam!

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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