Online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder to tell genuine businesses apart from fraudulent ones. Whether you’re shopping, applying for a job or entering personal details, it’s essential to stay alert and perform a few checks before sharing sensitive information or making any kind of payment online.
Check the Website’s Legitimacy
The first step is to look closely at the website itself. Poor grammar, spelling mistakes and low-quality design can all be red flags. Ensure the web address begins with https://- the “s” stands for secure – and check for a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. These are basic website security checks that help confirm the connection is encrypted. Here you can read more about how to recognise a fake website.
For more in-depth testing, websites such as https://www.etempa.co.uk/website-security-checks provide detailed insights into a site’s safety and technical integrity.
Verify Contact Details and Reviews
Scam websites often hide or falsify contact details. Check for a legitimate physical address, phone number and email. Search for the business name online, including the word “scam” or “review”, to see what others say. Genuine businesses usually have consistent and verifiable information across multiple platforms and social media accounts.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Pressure tactics, limited-time offers or requests for payment through unusual methods should raise immediate suspicion. Taking the time to perform website security checks and thorough research can save you from financial loss or identity theft. Always prioritise safety, and only share information when you are confident the source is genuine and trustworthy.
