Top 10 Instagram Scams Targeting You – Don’t Get Ripped Off!
Written by: Stelian Pilici
Published on:
With over 2 billion monthly active users, Instagram has become a wildly popular platform for sharing photos, videos, and stories. However, with such a massive global audience, Instagram has unfortunately also become a hotbed for scammers running fraudulent schemes.
This comprehensive article will provide an in-depth look at the most prevalent Instagram scams reported to be circulating currently, how they work, and advice to help identify and avoid falling victim. Being aware of the latest techniques these fraudsters use can help you keep your account, data, and money protected.
This article contains:
An Overview of Scamming on Instagram
As a primarily visual platform, scammers have found Instagram to be a playground for executing various forms of deception. Some common scam tactics include:
Phishing – Scammers send fake security warnings via email or Instagram messages to trick users into entering usernames/passwords on phony login pages. Account credentials are stolen for takeovers.
Fake Stores – Accounts impersonate real brands and celebrities to advertise counterfeit or non-existent products in the Instagram Shop. Payments are taken with no items delivered.
Influencer Impersonation – Fake accounts mimic real influencers and celebrities to build followings which are then exploited to propagate financial frauds and malicious links.
Romance Scams – Fraudsters manipulate victims by forming online relationships and eventually asking for money for supposed personal emergencies and hardships.
Fake Investment Schemes – Scammers pose as investment gurus promising guaranteed returns from cryptocurrency, stocks, or other schemes in exchange for an upfront “registration fee” which is pocketed.
Malware Distribution – Links in Instagram profiles, posts, ads, and messages lead unsuspecting users to sites containing viruses, spyware, and other malware when clicked.
Predatory Brand Promotions – Scammy brands overpromise benefits and use pressure tactics to sell questionable products, services, and business opportunities.
While Instagram has teams working around the clock to identify and shut down policy-violating accounts and content, new scam tactics are constantly emerging. Avoiding clicks on suspicious links and not blindly trusting flashy profiles can go a long way in helping users steer clear of Instagram cons.
Breaking Down the Top 10 Instagram Scams
Let’s examine the most prevalent Instagram scams that all users should be aware of to help detect and stop them.
1. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams aim to steal users’ Instagram login credentials through deception. This is accomplished by sending fake security warnings through Instagram direct messages or emails.
The messages claim that suspicious activity has been detected on the account, or that the account will soon be deleted due to violations unless the user “verifies” themselves immediately.
A link is provided to supposedly resolve the issue, but it actually leads to a sophisticated phishing site designed to mimic Instagram’s login page. If users enter their username and password, the credentials are captured and the account gets hijacked.
How to Spot This Scam
Messages create urgency, demanding immediate action to avoid account deletion.
Links go to odd URLs or have misspellings, not Instagram.com.
Messages originate from accounts with no followers/following or have unrelated names.
How to Avoid It
Enable two-factor authentication and use unique complex passwords.
Disregard any messages about your account being compromised or requiring verification.
Type Instagram.com directly into your browser if you want to access your account. Avoid links.
2. Fake Merchandise Scams
Scammers set up fake Instagram shops posing as real brands like Gucci, Supreme, Nike, and Rolex. They advertise counterfeit products through posts and Instagram Stories using stolen product images.
After orders and payments are received, victims either receive low quality knock-offs or nothing at all. By the time buyers realize they’ve been scammed, the fraudulent “store” has disappeared or been banned from Instagram.
How to Spot This Scam
Prices for luxury goods are dramatically lower than normal.
Brand names may have slight misspellings.
Shops lack any reviews or verification checkmarks.
How to Avoid It
Only buy from Instagram Shops with blue verification badges indicating legitimacy.
Research brands you don’t recognize thoroughly before purchasing. Search for scam complaints.
Avoid limited-time offers or prices that seem too good to be true.
3. Fake Influencer Scams
Scammers create accounts impersonating real influencers and celebs by using imitation usernames and stolen photos. They interact with followers to appear legit and eventually promote affiliate links, crypto schemes, gambling sites, and other fraudulent money-making ventures.
Their large fake followings give them perceived clout, but any purchases or investments lead to losses. The accounts either take the money and run or funnel victims to dangerous sites.
How to Spot This Scam
Accounts lack the blue Instagram verification badge.
Profile bios don’t contain official website links.
They push shopping links, crypto platforms, or money-making groups.
How to Avoid It
Check that celebrity accounts are verified before trusting.
Beware investment opportunities or shopping links from influencer accounts.
Search the influencer’s real name online to expose impersonators.
4. Fake Sponsorship Scams
Scammers pose as representatives of brands and claim they want to offer you an influencer sponsorship deal. They promise lucrative contracts, free products, and travel opportunities in exchange for a small upfront payment to process contracts, arrange flights, etc.
Once any type of initial payment is sent, the scammers disappear without providing anything promised in return. Any subsequent contact ends with further requests for more money.
How to Spot This Scam
Brand accounts lack verification checkmarks.
Conversation moves quickly to requesting payments upfront.
Email addresses used look unprofessional or unrelated to brand name.
How to Avoid It
Verify sponsored brand accounts have official verification badges first.
Legit sponsors won’t require payments upfront before services are rendered. Always pay afterwards.
Search for contact email addresses on the brand’s real website rather than responding to DMs.
5. Fake Giveaway Scams
Scammers create fakeInstagram accounts or hack legitimate users and post enticing giveaway offers promising valuable prizes like iPhones, gift cards, or cash to lucky winners.
To enter, you must follow, like, and share the giveaway post, then provide personal information including banking details to claim your prize. However, winners are never actually selected and users see charges for fraudulent purchases made using their stolen financial information.
How to Spot This Scam
Giveaways require sharing personal information to enter.
Accounts have low followers/engagement and no verification.
Prizes are high-value items like Macbooks and PS5s.
How to Avoid It
Never enter Instagram giveaways requiring you to share financial account or login details.
Only enter contests by reputable sources with verified accounts and plenty of real followers.
Check account comments to see if others report non-delivery of prizes.
6. Money Flipping Scams
Money flipping scammers promise they can double or triple any amount of money you send them through Cash App, PayPal, etc. All you need to do is first send a “registration payment” to get signed up for their service.
They claim to be elite investors and show screenshots of previous customers who doubled their money. However, all initial payments stop getting responses once sent. The scammer then blocks the victim.
How to Spot This Scam
Claims of enormous investment returns well above market averages.
Refusal to provide any information on their investment strategy.
Initial “registration” payment required to participate.
How to Avoid It
Remember that no legitimate money doubling services exist. Sending payments will result in losses.
Do not send money to strangers promising unrealistic returns. It indicates a scam.
Report money flipping accounts immediately for violating Instagram’s policies.
7. Cryptocurrency Mining Scams
Similar to other investment cons, scammers promoting cryptocurrency mining scams promise unbelievable rewards. They claim that for a small investment of $500 – $1000, you can earn over $10,000 monthly through bitcoin mining pools.
To register, all you need to do is first send payment to the provided wallet address. Then you’ll gain access to their profitable mining operation. But once payments are sent, all communication ceases and no mining returns are ever received.
How to Spot This Scam
Promises of ridiculously high guaranteed returns from mining cryptocurrency.
Vague descriptions of their mining operation when questions are asked.
Requiring registration payments directly to their crypto wallet address.
How to Avoid It
There are no low-risk cryptocurrency opportunities that will produce consistently high rewards.
Conduct extensive research before investing in any mining operation or crypto platform advertised via Instagram.
Start mining crypto yourself rather than sending payments to strangers promising profits.
8. Fake Job Scams
Scammers take advantage of unemployment by posting Instagram ads about lucrative remote jobs from supposed reputable companies. When you apply, they conduct “interviews” over chat before offering a position.
To proceed with onboarding, you need to provide copies of your ID, social security number, and banking details. Then the fraudulent hiring manager ceases communication once your personal information is obtained.
How to Spot This Scam
Job ads promise very high salaries for easy remote work.
Interviews are conducted solely over Instagram chat.
They request personal documents like bank account and social security numbers.
How to Avoid It
Research any company hiring through Instagram independently before applying.
Never provide sensitive personal or financial documents to strangers who contact you online.
Apply directly on company websites you trust rather than through social media ads.
9. Romance Scams
Fraudsters create fake profiles presenting themselves as attractive individuals and start commenting flirty messages to build a relationship. Eventually, they claim an emergency came up and ask you to send money for rent, flights, surgery, etc.
Using manipulative sob stories and promises of meeting soon, romance scammers trick lovelorn victims into sending funds repeatedly for the various crises that keep popping up.
How to Spot This Scam
They profess love and seriousness very quickly without ever meeting in person.
They refuse or make excuses to not video chat.
They have few posts, friends, or details that can be corroborated.
How to Avoid It
Never send money to someone you only know online, despite emotional pleas.
Conduct reverse image searches on profile pictures to identify fakes.
Avoid suitors who propose future plans prematurely without meeting first.
10. Fake Music Promotion
Scammers reach out to musical artists promoting supposed music promotion services. They promise bogus benefits like Spotify playlist adds, radio airplay, music video sponsorships, and live performance bookings.
To secure their services initially, you need to first pay a registration fee. But the promotions never materialize after payments are sent.
How to Spot This Scam
Services make bold claims about guaranteed fame and stardom.
Upfront fees are required before any promotion begins.
Company websites look hastily made or don’t have much online presence.
How to Avoid It
Research any music promotion companies contacting you thoroughly via independent sources.
Never pay unproven entities large sums upfront before witnessing results.
Focus on organically building your audience rather than trusting shady shortcuts.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed on Instagram
If you unfortunately fell victim to an Instagram scam and suffered financial losses or account access issues, here are important steps to take:
Report the Scammer’s Account
First, report the fraudulent Instagram account in the app by tapping the three-dot menu icon on their profile, selecting “Report,” and choosing “Scam or Fraud” as the reason.
Providing additional details to Instagram about the scam can help expedite shutting down the account. You should also block the account to prevent continued contact.
Reset Your Instagram Password
If a phishing scam compromised your login credentials, immediately change your Instagram password to prevent continued account access by scammers.
Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security as well requiring an access code to log in going forward.
Contact Your Bank
If any financial account info was given to scammers who may misuse it, call your bank, credit card provider, or digital wallet platform immediately.
Report fraudulent charges or transactions from the scam. You can request new account numbers, frozen cards, or arrange reimbursements for unauthorized purchases in some cases.
Use Recovery Resources
For serious Instagram account hijackings, you can try submitting an appeal through Instagram’s account recovery form describing how your account was stolen.
Provide any details on how the account takeover occurred and whether you have a way to prove original ownership.
Report Identity Theft
If personal information like your SSN was handed to scammers who may abuse it, visit IdentityTheft.gov to report identity theft and get recovery assistance.
You can also sign up for identity monitoring services to track any suspicious credit activity conducted in your name and receive alerts.
Contact Law Enforcement
For high scam losses, you can file an Internet crime complaint with the FBI or FTC explaining you were defrauded. Provide any details on the scam technique and screenshots of communication.
You may also consider small claims court for losses under $5,000 – 10,000 against identifiable scammers by hiring an attorney.
Avoiding Instagram Scams
Stay vigilant when communicating on Instagram and be cautious before clicking strange links, making purchases, or sending money to untrusted accounts. Here are some best practices:
Enable two-factor authentication on your account to prevent unauthorized logins.
Be skeptical of any investment opportunities, giveaways, sponsors, or money-making promises promoted through Instagram.
Verify accounts are legitimate through blue checkmarks and an established online presence before engaging.
Beware purchases from Instagram Shops that lack reviews from real previous customers.
Never provide sensitive personal or financial information through Instagram communication channels.
Do not enter Instagram password credentials anywhere except the official Instagram app or website.
How to Identify Instagram Scams
While scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, there are some common signs that can help Instagram users spot fraudulent accounts and activity:
Look for Verification Status
Legitimate brands, businesses, and public figures have blue verification checkmarks on their official Instagram accounts. Lack of a verification badge on accounts impersonating real entities should raise suspicions.
Inspect Follower and Engagement Metrics
Scam accounts often show inflated follower numbers and engagement achieved through bots and purchased fake followers. But check that followers are real accounts with profile pictures and posts. Genuine engagement should come from recognized accounts.
Assess Account Age and Content
Many scams originate from freshly created accounts with sparse previous posting history. The account may lack identifiable details in the profile section as well. Fraudulent accounts also frequently delete and recreate accounts once reported.
Watch for Language and Pressure Tactics
Messages urging quick action, guaranteeing rewards, or requesting personal information are red flags. Money-back guarantees and limited time offers aim to prevent scrutiny.
Analyze External Links and Site Quality
Check links in bios and posts for odd URLs, typos, and sketchy domain names. Click with caution and avoid entering sensitive information on unfamiliar sites. Poor quality or hastily created sites connected to Instagram accounts may indicate scams.
Search for Scam Warnings
Search the internet for the Instagram username or any claims made by an account to expose reported scams. You may find warnings on scam reporting sites about accounts to avoid.
Staying vigilant for these signs of fraudulent Instagram activity can help users steer clear of losing money or personal data through scams. Conducting due diligence before clicking links, sharing information, or making purchases is essential.
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.
Download Malwarebytes for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
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.
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.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
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.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
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.
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.
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.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
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.
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.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
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.
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.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
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.
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. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. 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. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
How can I tell if an Instagram account is fake or a scam?
Warning signs of scams include accounts with no posts, low followers/engagement, dubious usernames, lack of verification checkmark, dubious messages, requests for money or personal information, links to sketchy external sites, prices that seem too good to be true, etc. Do research before engaging.
What should I do if someone is impersonating me on Instagram?
First, report the impersonating account. Provide Instagram with evidence proving you are the real person being imitated. Changing your username or bio to say “official” or “real” can help differentiate.
Can I get my money back if I get scammed on Instagram?
It’s very difficult to recover money lost in Instagram scams. Contact your bank immediately to halt further transfers and have fraudulent charges reversed. Police reports and legal action may help for large losses.
Why do scammers ask for gift cards on Instagram?
Scammers prefer gift cards because they can quickly redeem codes for untraceable cash. Never purchase gift cards for strangers online even if promised reimbursement.
Is it safe to buy products promoted on Instagram?
Only buy from Instagram shops with blue verification badges indicating the seller is legitimate. Search for reviews and scam complaints before purchasing expensive items advertised on Instagram.
How can I tell if a follower/engagement service is a scam?
Services promising massive free followers or likes overnight are always scams. Genuine services grow followings organically over time. Purchase followers at your own risk – most are bots, not real users.
How do I avoid romance scams on Instagram?
Never send money to someone you only know online, no matter how believable their story seems. Conduct reverse image searches on profile pictures to identify fakes. Go slowly and look for red flags like refusal to video chat.
Should I click on links that Instagram accounts share?
In general, it’s risky to click links in Instagram bios, posts, or DMs from unverified accounts. Hover over links to inspect destinations. When possible, navigate to sites manually rather than clicking.
How can I tell if an Instagram lottery/giveaway is real?
Check that giveaway accounts are verified with plenty of real followers. Promotions requesting you share financial information are always fake. Real giveaways don’t require payments or personal details.
What steps should I take if my Instagram is hacked?
Immediately change your password, enable two-factor authentication, and remove any unfamiliar linked accounts in settings. Report the account compromise to Instagram. Also change passwords anywhere else you reused the same one.
Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true on Instagram. Report suspicious accounts and activities when encountered. Avoid clicking random links or communicating extensively with unverified accounts. Exercising caution can help minimize your risk of Instagram scams.
Conclusion
As Instagram’s popularity continues growing, it will, unfortunately, keep attracting dubious accounts running phishing campaigns, fake shops, investment cons, romance scams, and other fraudulent tactics targeting unsuspecting users.
This guide outlined the most prevalent Instagram scams that all users should be aware of to help spot deception and malicious activity. These include phishing schemes, counterfeit product stores, influencer impersonators, money-flipping promises, cryptocurrency mining scams, romance scams, fraudulent giveaways, and more.
Knowing what fraudulent tactics to watch out for, proceeding with skepticism rather than blind trust, and being cautious before clicking questionable links or providing any sensitive information can go a long way in keeping your account and information protected.
Spread awareness about these Instagram scams to help others avoid falling victim. Report any suspicious behavior directly to Instagram as well. Stay vigilant in assessing risks and exercising caution when interacting with unfamiliar accounts.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
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.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
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.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
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."
Install an 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.
Be careful what you download.
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.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
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.
Back up your data.
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.
Choose strong passwords.
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.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
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.
Meet Stelian Pilici
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
