9 Online Scams You’re Probably Falling For Right Now

Online scams are growing fast—too fast. Did you know that millions of people lose money yearly to internet fraud? That’s right! From fake emails to tricky online shops, digital scams are everywhere. And guess what? Even smart people get fooled. You’re not alone—scammers are getting smarter every day.

This article will show you 9 online scams you’re probably falling for right now. Some might seem harmless. Others might look too good to be true. But all of them are dangerous. You’ll learn what each scam looks like, how it works, and how to avoid it. We’ll talk about things like fake job offers, scam websites, and sneaky messages on social media.

Cybercrime is not just something in movies. It’s real, and it’s happening right now. That’s why it’s so important to know what to watch for. We’ll keep it simple and clear, so you can stay one step ahead.

So, read this post to the end. Share it with your friends and family, too. The more people know about these online scams, the safer we all are. Ready to become scam-smart? Let’s get started!

What Are Online Scams and Why Are They Rising?

Online scams are tricks people use to steal your money or personal details on the internet. These scams may look real, but they are not. They can come through emails, text messages, fake websites, or even video calls. Scammers use smart ways to fool you. This is called internet fraud, and it can hurt you and your family.

Since the pandemic, more people shop, work, and learn online. This digital boom made life easier—but it also gave scammers more chances to attack. With so many people using phones and computers, digital scams have become a big problem.

Cybercrime is growing fast. According to the FBI’s IC3 Report, cybercrime complaints rose by 16% in 2023 alone. That’s a lot of people getting tricked! These scammers are always looking for new ways to fool you. They may pretend to be someone you trust, like your bank or a family member.

But don’t worry! You can stay safe by learning how these scams work. Want to protect yourself during video calls, too? Check out our helpful guide: 10 Powerful Tips for Online Safety in Video Chats.

Now that you know what online scams are and why they’re rising, it’s time to learn about the ones you might see every day. Let’s dive into the most common scams next, so you know exactly what to watch out for!

1. Phishing Emails That Steal Your Identity

This is one of the most common online scams today. Phishing emails are fake messages that look real. They try to trick you into giving away your info, like your name, bank details, or passwords. These email scams can be very sneaky.

They often have scary or exciting subject lines like:

• “Your Account Has Been Locked!”
• “You’ve Won a Free Gift Card!”
• “Payment Failed – Update Now!”

The email may look like it’s from your bank, a store you shop at, or even a friend. But it’s not. When you click the link inside, it takes you to a fake website. Then, it asks you to type in private details. That’s how scammers steal your identity.

So, how do you spot a phishing email? Look closely. Does the email use your real name? Is the sender’s address strange? Does it ask for passwords or money fast? These are red flags. Fake email alerts often use bad grammar, urgent words, or weird links.

If you’re not sure, don’t click. Go straight to the real website instead. Or ask someone you trust.

Phishing is a big part of digital scams, but you can beat it by staying sharp. Learn more in our safety tips and protect your inbox from danger.

2. Fake Delivery Text Messages and Tracking Links

Have you ever seen a text that says, “Your package is arriving today—track here”? It looks exciting, right? But watch out! This is one of the sneakiest online scams.

Scammers send fake delivery texts pretending to be from USPS, UPS, or FedEx. The message has a tracking link. But when you tap it, it takes you to a fake website. It may ask you for money or personal information. Sometimes, it can even install a virus on your phone.

One real scam looked like this:
“USPS: Your delivery is delayed. Reschedule here: usps-deliverytrack[dot]com.”
It tricked thousands of people into sharing credit card numbers.

These digital scams work because we all order things online. Scammers know that. They send messages at random, hoping you’re waiting for a package. And when you click too fast, they win.

So, how do you stay safe?

• Don’t click links in strange messages.
• Check your tracking on the official app or website.
• Look at the link—is it misspelled or weird? That’s a red flag.
• Ask someone you trust if you’re unsure.

Fake delivery messages are scary because they seem real. But now you know the trick, you can avoid the trap.

Keep reading to learn about more online scams and how to protect yourself every day!

Read Also: Essential Cybersecurity Tools for Beginners in 2025

3. Online Shopping Sites That Never Deliver

Some online scams look like fun shopping deals. But when you buy something, the product never comes. These are scam websites that take your money and give you nothing.

They may look like real stores. They show nice photos and big sales. You might see shoes for just $5 or a phone for $20. But that’s a trick. Fake stores online use low prices to catch you fast.

So, how can you tell it’s fake? Look for these red flags:

• No “https” in the link (this means no SSL security).
• No customer reviews or only fake-sounding ones.
• Prices that are too good to be true.
• No “About Us” or “Contact” page.
• Only asking for payment by gift card or wire transfer.

If the site looks strange, pause. Check the store name on Google. You might find warnings from other people. Real stores have good websites, clear return rules, and safe ways to pay.

Scam websites pop up often, especially during sales seasons or holidays. They trick kids, teens, and even grown-ups!

Always ask: “Is this store real?” before you shop. And if you’re unsure, buy from well-known websites or apps you trust.

Keep going to learn about more sneaky online scams—and how to stop them before they start!

4. Investment Scams Promising Quick Returns

Some online scams pretend to help you make money fast. They talk about crypto, forex, or big “opportunities.” But these are fake. They just want your cash.

These scammers use big words like “double your money in 7 days!” or “act now—spots are filling up!” They create FOMO (fear of missing out). They want you to feel rushed. That way, you don’t stop to think.

These are often Ponzi schemes. That means old investors are paid with money from new ones. In the end, everyone loses—except the scammer.

In 2022, people around the world lost over $3.3 billion to these investment scams. That’s a lot of money!

So, how do you stay safe? Look for these warning signs:

• Promise fast or “guaranteed” returns.
• Pressure you to invest right now.
• They don’t explain how the money grows.
• They only use messaging apps, not official emails.
• You can’t find real reviews or company info.

These digital scams can feel real, especially when friends or influencers share them. But always check before you invest. Real companies have websites, licenses, and clear plans.

If something sounds too easy, it’s probably a scam. Ask questions. Take your time. And never send money to someone you don’t fully trust.

Let’s keep going—more online scams are waiting to trick people, but not you!

5. Romance Scams That Tug at Your Heart and Wallet

Online scams don’t just steal your money—they can also break your heart. Romance scams happen when someone pretends to be in love with you. They build an emotional connection over time, using sweet words and fake promises.

Scammers usually meet people on online dating sites like Tinder or even on social media platforms like Facebook. They start by being kind and caring. They ask about your day and make you feel special. But soon, they start asking for money. Maybe they need help with an emergency or a trip.

In one case, a woman lost $50,000 to a scammer who promised to visit her but needed money for a “plane ticket.” She believed the scammer for months, sending money every time.

These online dating scams prey on your emotions. The scammer tries to make you feel guilty, anxious, or even in love. They know how to manipulate you and make you think they care.

If you’re talking to someone online and they start asking for money, especially after a short time, be careful. Emotional fraud can feel real, but it’s not. Always ask yourself, “Would I send money to someone I’ve never met in person?”

Remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stay alert and protect your heart and wallet.

Let’s keep going! There are more online scams to watch out for.

6. Giveaway and Lottery Scams on Social Media

“You’ve won an iPhone!” It sounds exciting, right? But what if you didn’t win anything at all? This is a common trick used by online scams on social media.

Scammers create fake giveaways or lottery contests on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. They often pretend to be big brands or influencers. Their posts say things like:
“Congratulations! You’ve won a free iPhone! Claim now by clicking this link!”

But here’s the trick: once you click the link, it asks for your details or payment for “shipping fees.” Or worse, it might ask you to share the post with friends to “confirm your prize.” That’s when the scammer collects your information or spreads the scam even further.

Fake brand accounts on social media are easy to spot if you know what to look for:

• The profile has only a few posts and followers.
• The page name is slightly misspelled or strange.
• The logo looks blurry or low quality.

Scammers know how tempting giveaway scams can be. Who doesn’t want to win something free? But remember: real brands won’t ask for money to claim a prize, and they won’t message you first.

Be careful with online scams like these. Always check the brand’s official page or website before clicking any links.

Keep reading to learn about more sneaky digital scams and how to stay safe online!

7. Bank or Tech Support Impersonation Calls

Online scams don’t always happen on the internet—they can come to you by phone. Scammers often spoof caller IDs to make it look like a trusted company is calling. It might seem like your bank or a tech support team is on the line, but it’s not.

The scammer might say, “We detected unauthorized activity on your account…” or, “There’s a problem with your computer, and we need to fix it.” They try to make you scared or worried so you’ll act quickly without thinking.

Once they’ve got your attention, they’ll ask for personal details like your account number, password, or even a one-time password (OTP) sent to your phone. They may ask you to install something on your computer or provide remote access. That’s when the scam happens—they steal your information or access your accounts.

How can you protect yourself from these online scams?

• Never share sensitive info, like passwords or OTPs, over the phone.
• If you get a call that sounds suspicious, hang up.
• Always call back the official number from the bank or the company’s website.
• Don’t click on links or open attachments from unknown callers.

Scammers are good at making their calls sound real. But with a little care, you can spot these tricks and keep your information safe.

Stay safe, and keep reading for more tips on avoiding online scams!

8. App and Software Download Scams

Online scams can hide in places you might not expect, like in your apps! Some malicious apps steal your data or install malware on your phone or computer. These apps often look harmless, promising great features or services, but instead, they cause trouble.

When you download an app, make sure it’s from a trusted place, like the App Store or Google Play. Apps from these official stores usually go through security checks. But beware of apps that you download from unknown sources, also known as sideloading. These apps might seem like useful tools, but they can put your data and device at risk.

For example, an app that promises to boost your phone’s speed might instead be secretly collecting your contacts, photos, or even passwords. Other apps might ask for unnecessary permissions, like access to your microphone or camera. This is often a red flag!

To stay safe, only download apps from trusted sources and check reviews before installing. If an app asks for too many permissions, think twice. You can also protect yourself further by using security tools.

Check out our internal article, “Best Tools To Protect Your Online Identity”, to learn more about how to stay safe from these types of online scams.

Stay cautious when downloading apps, and keep your devices safe from digital threats!

9. Job Offer and Work-From-Home Scams

Online scams can even target people looking for jobs. Fake recruiters often promise remote jobs or easy work-from-home opportunities. They make everything sound perfect—great pay, flexible hours, and no experience needed. But beware, these offers are usually too good to be true.

One of the biggest signs of a fake job offer is the lack of an interview. Scammers skip the interview process, making it seem like you’re hired instantly. They might also give you vague job descriptions or ask for money upfront to buy training kits or pay for “necessary equipment.” Real employers don’t ask for payment before hiring you!

These remote job scams often target people desperate for a job. Scammers know how to prey on your hopes and dreams. They might also offer jobs that sound too easy, like making money just by answering emails or filling out surveys.

To avoid falling for these online scams, always research the company before applying. Look for official websites and real reviews. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember, legitimate employers never ask for money up front.

Stay alert and keep reading our blog for more tips to avoid these tricky online scams!

How to Protect Yourself from Online Scams

Protecting yourself from online scams is important, and there are easy steps you can take to stay safe. First, always install security tools like antivirus software and a firewall on your devices. These tools can help detect online scams and block harmful websites or downloads.

Before clicking on links or downloading apps, verify sources. Only visit trusted websites and check reviews. Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages from unknown senders.

One great way to protect yourself is by using multi-factor authentication (MFA). This adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Even if a scammer gets your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second verification.

It’s also important to educate your family members, especially elderly relatives and teens, about the risks of online scams. They might not be as familiar with common scams and could be more easily tricked. Teach them to question unusual offers and to never share personal details unless they are 100% sure it’s safe.

Lastly, you can learn more about protecting yourself by reading our internal article, “Tips to Choose the Best Cybersecurity Certifications”.

By following these simple steps, you can reduce the risk of falling for online scams and keep your personal information safe! Stay vigilant and share these tips with those around you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Online Scams

What are online scams?

Online scams are fraudulent schemes that trick people into giving away money or personal information on the internet. They can take the form of fake emails, text messages, websites, or even social media posts designed to steal your details.

Why are online scams becoming more common?

As more people shop, work, and learn online, scammers have more opportunities to trick users. The rapid growth of digital platforms and an increase in cybercrime have made online scams a rising problem.

How can I spot a phishing email?

Phishing emails often contain urgent or alarming subject lines, strange sender addresses, and poor grammar. They ask for sensitive information like passwords or credit card details. Always check the sender’s address and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

What should I do if I receive a fake delivery text message?

Do not click any links in strange delivery messages. Check the official website or app of the delivery service for tracking details. Look for misspelled links or unusual addresses as red flags.

How can I identify a scam online store?

Scam websites usually have low prices, no SSL security (no “https”), and lack an “About Us” or “Contact” page. They may also ask for payments via wire transfer or gift cards, which is a major warning sign.

How do investment scams work?

Investment scams promise quick returns with little to no risk, often focusing on high-risk investments like crypto. They create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to invest immediately. Avoid these by researching thoroughly before investing.

What is a romance scam?

Romance scams involve someone pretending to be in love with you online, often through dating sites or social media. They eventually ask for money, usually for emergencies or travel expenses. Always be cautious if someone you’ve never met in person asks for money.

How can I recognize fake giveaways on social media?

Fake giveaways often promise free prizes but require you to click links or provide personal details. Look for poorly designed profiles, strange account names, or misspelled brand names to spot these scams.

What should I do if I receive a suspicious call from my bank or tech support?

Never share sensitive information over the phone. Hang up if you suspect a scam and call the official number of the company directly. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious callers.

How can I protect myself from job offer scams?

Be wary of job offers that sound too good to be true, especially if they don’t involve an interview. Avoid paying any upfront fees for training or equipment. Always research the company and check for reviews before applying for jobs online.

Final Thoughts: Stay Alert, Stay Safe

Online scams are tricky—and they’re everywhere! Today, you learned about 9 online scams you’re probably falling for right now. These scams include fake emails, scam websites, and even fake job offers. They may look real, but they are part of a big digital scam. Scammers try to steal your money or your secrets. That’s cybercrime!

The good news? Now you know how to spot these online scams. You’ve seen the warning signs. You’ve learned how to stay safe. Simple steps like not clicking strange links and checking websites can stop internet fraud. Even just pausing to think can help a lot!

But here’s one more thing to do—share this with your family and friends. Everyone needs to know how these scams work. You can help someone avoid a big mistake just by sending them this post.

Want to keep learning? Subscribe now for more easy tips to stay safe online. We’ll send you fun and smart ideas to help you beat the scammers every time.

Stay smart. Stay safe. And remember—when something online feels off, it probably is!