Online scams are getting more convincing every year. They don’t just target businesses or “tech experts” — they target everyday people, often using simple tricks that catch you off guard.
The key isn’t knowing every scam. It’s recognising the patterns they all share.
Here are the most common scams to watch out for — and how to avoid them.
1. Phishing Emails (Fake Messages That Look Real)
These are emails that pretend to be from trusted companies — banks, delivery services, or even streaming platforms.
What they try to do:
Get you to click a link and enter your login details or personal information.
Warning signs:
- Urgent messages like “Your account will be locked today”
- Strange sender email addresses
- Links that don’t match the official website
How to stay safe:
- Don’t click links in unexpected emails
- Go directly to the company’s website instead
- Check the sender address carefully
2. Fake Delivery Texts
You get a message saying a package couldn’t be delivered, with a link to “reschedule.”
What’s really happening:
The link leads to a fake site designed to steal your details or payment information.
How to stay safe:
- Don’t click links from unknown numbers
- Check delivery status through the official courier website
- Be cautious if you weren’t expecting a parcel
3. Tech Support Scams
A pop-up or phone call claims your computer is infected and urges you to act immediately.
What they want:
- Remote access to your computer
- Payment for “fixing” a problem that doesn’t exist
How to stay safe:
- Real companies don’t cold-call you about viruses
- Don’t allow remote access unless you initiated it
- Close suspicious pop-ups immediately
4. Password Reset Scams
You receive a message asking you to reset your password — even though you didn’t request it.
The trick:
The link takes you to a fake login page that captures your credentials.
How to stay safe:
- Only reset passwords from the official website or app
- Ignore unexpected reset requests
- Enable two-factor authentication where possible
5. “Too Good to Be True” Deals
Huge discounts on popular items, often advertised on social media or unfamiliar websites.
What’s really happening:
- You receive a fake or low-quality product
- Or nothing at all
How to stay safe:
- Stick to trusted retailers
- Be wary of extreme discounts
- Check reviews before buying
6. Impersonation Scams (Friends or Family)
Scammers hack or fake accounts and message you pretending to be someone you know.
Common message:
“Hey, can you help me out? I need money urgently.”
How to stay safe:
- Verify requests through another method (call them)
- Be cautious with urgent money requests
- Look for unusual language or tone
7. Investment & “Easy Money” Scams
Promises of guaranteed returns, often involving cryptocurrency or “insider tips.”
Reality:
Legitimate investments always carry risk — there’s no guaranteed profit.
How to stay safe:
- Avoid anything promising quick, easy money
- Don’t send money to unknown individuals
- Research before investing
8. Fake Giveaways and Competitions
“You’ve won a prize!” — but you need to pay a fee or provide personal details to claim it.
How to stay safe:
- Legitimate giveaways don’t require payment
- Be cautious about sharing personal information
- Check the official page of the brand running the competition
9. Romance Scams
Someone builds an online relationship, then asks for money due to an “emergency.”
Warning signs:
- They avoid video calls
- Their story doesn’t quite add up
- They ask for money or gifts
How to stay safe:
- Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person
- Be cautious with online relationships that move too quickly
10. The “Urgency” Trick (Used in Almost Every Scam)
This isn’t a scam on its own — it’s a tactic used in nearly all of them.
They rely on:
- Panic
- Pressure
- Acting quickly without thinking
Your best defence:
Pause. Take a moment. Scammers lose power when you slow down.
Final Thoughts
Scams don’t work because people are careless — they work because they’re designed to feel real and urgent.
If something feels off, trust that instinct.
A simple rule to remember:
💭 If you didn’t expect it, don’t click it.
If you’re unsure about a message or link, I can help you check whether it’s safe — just paste it here (without clicking it).
Henton’s Computer Services — keeping you connected, protected, and productive.
Contact us on 07775 900 684
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