Scammers use fake online stores and tempting social media ads to steal money and personal information. Learn how to spot the warning signs before it's too late.

      Have you ever been scrolling through social media when an advertisement catches your eye? The item is exactly what you've been looking for, and the price is far lower than anywhere else. Excited by the deal, you click the ad, enter your information, and wait for your purchase to arrive.

      The package never comes.

      Unfortunately, the advertisement was a scam. Fraudulent websites are designed to steal personal and financial information, and some may even install malicious software on your device.

      How to Spot a Scam

      Before making a purchase, ask yourself these questions:

      • Have I heard of this company before? Research the business and search for reviews, complaints, or scam reports.
      • Is the price too good to be true? If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
      •  Does the ad create a sense of urgency? Phrases like "Almost Sold Out!" or "Limited-Time Offer!" are often used to encourage impulse purchases.
      • Does the website look suspicious? Watch for misspellings, unusual web addresses, extra letters, or added punctuation.

      Protect Yourself

      To reduce your risk:

      • Exercise caution before clicking ads from unfamiliar retailers and always verify the seller before making a purchase.
      • Be cautious about the personal information you share on social media.
      • Review and update your privacy settings regularly.
      • Take time to verify a company before making a purchase.

      If you become a victim & believe you've been scammed:

      1. Contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
      2. Change passwords for any affected accounts.
      3. Monitor your accounts for unauthorized activity.
      4. Save screenshots, emails, and other evidence.
      5. Report the scam to
        • The social media platform where you saw the ad.
        • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
        • The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov

      Final Thoughts

      Scammers rely on urgency and attractive deals to trick consumers into acting quickly. Before you click "Buy Now," take a moment to verify the seller and the offer. A few minutes of research can protect your money, your personal information, and your peace of mind.

       

      Have questions about online scams or cybersecurity best practices?

      Check out our ID Theft/Fraud page on our website: Fraud, Scams & ID Theft | First Lockhart Bank or contact our team for additional resources and guidance.