Scam links are difficult to spot, but it has become an everyday issue for internet users who accidentally click on malicious URLs that are part of a phishing attack. Most fake links include standard “https” encryption and domains similar to real websites. Phishing and spoofing scams caused over $70 million in losses for victims in 2024 says FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
When users click on a scam link, they might suffer monetary losses, and worse, give up private info such as name and credit card details to scammers, they may also accidentally install malware on their device.
How to spot scam link
They are generally found in text messages and emails sent by scammers, designed to trick us into downloading malware or bringing us to a scam website to steal our personal identifying information. A few examples include gold bars, employment, and unpaid toll scams. Scammers send these links to the masses— with the help of AI these days. Since a lot of users fall victim to phishing scams every year, scammers haven’t changed their attack tactics over the years.
How to avoid scam link
Always check the URL
These days, smartphones try to block scam links, so scammers have adapted making links that escape detection. Users are advised to look for typos-quatting, a technique that uses spelling mistakes. For eg: 'applle' instead of 'apple'.
Be cautious of URLs you visit regularly
Most brands don’t change their domain names. If you find the domain name is different in the URL, it is a fake link.
Watch out for short links
Shortlists are generally found on social media and texts. Experts say there is no way to determine the authenticity of a shortened URL, advising users to not open them. Instead, users should check the language for any suspicious signs.
How do victims receive scam links?
Text scams
These don’t need website links, they are sent via phone numbers. Users accidentally click on a malicious phone number thinking it is their bank or someone important. Experts suggest not to interact with unknown phone numbers.
The most popular means to send scam links is via e-mail, resulting in the biggest monetary losses. To stay safe, users can copy the link in their notepad first and inspect it before opening it.
QR code scams
Malicious QR codes have become common in public avenues, from restaurants to parking stands. Scammers embed fake codes over real ones or fill them with phishing emails that redirect to fake sites or malware downloads.
DMs on social media
Scammers pretend to be someone you know, they may fake a medical emergency and demand you for money to help them. Always call the person to cross-check the identity before giving money, opening a link, or revealing any personal information.
