A troubling trend has emerged in social media: con artists crafting enticing advertisements that promise incredible deals on merchandise from brands you know and love. These tricksters go to great lengths to establish counterfeit websites that mimic the look and feel of legitimate retailers, making their schemes all the more convincing. Their primary goal is to gather your personal information or coax you into using digital payment services like Zelle® when you attempt to finalise your purchase.
One individual had a personal experience that highlighted the ease with which online scams can occur. While scrolling through their social media feed one afternoon, they came across an advertisement for a sale from one of their preferred brands. The ad caught their eye, resembling many previous promotions they had seen, featuring an enticing discount that seemed too appealing to ignore. Curious, they clicked on the link, which led them to a website that looked strikingly similar to the brand’s official site, complete with a banner proclaiming free shipping.
As they moved through the checkout process, confusion set in when they realised there was no option to enter their credit card information. Instead, the only payment methods available were digital platforms like Zelle®. Choosing to overlook their initial reservations, they proceeded with the transaction using Zelle®, believing it to be a safe decision. However, their discomfort grew when they failed to receive a confirmation email—a typical expectation after making a purchase. Days turned into weeks—three, to be precise—yet the items they had ordered never arrived.
Frustrated and worried about the potential for fraud, the individual contacted their bank to initiate a claim. Unfortunately, they were informed that recovering the lost funds was impossible. It soon became painfully evident that they had fallen prey to a carefully crafted scam.
To prevent such situations in the future, individuals need to take measures to protect themselves. A key strategy is to manually type the company’s web address into the browser instead of clicking links from advertisements. This straightforward step can help confirm whether any sales or promotional offers are genuinely featured on the official site. If those offers aren’t present there, the advertisement and its linked website are likely fraudulent. Additionally, whenever feasible, individuals should choose to use credit or debit cards for transactions, as these typically provide superior protection compared to other payment options. Maintaining vigilance is crucial in safeguarding one’s hard-earned money against these unscrupulous schemes.
Stay Informed About Common Scams
To safeguard yourself, maintain a healthy scepticism toward calls, emails, texts, or other forms of communication from unfamiliar sources—especially those requesting money or personal details. Below are illustrations of prevalent scams, along with advice to enhance your security.
Unbelievable Bargain
“Snag these exclusive sneakers at an incredible price! You can pay with cash or a payment application.”
TIP: Exercise caution regarding unbelievable offers on social media platforms. Once you transfer funds, you may not be able to recover them.
Familiar Face
“This is the IRS, and you owe back taxes. Immediate payment is required to avoid legal action.”
TIP: Be wary if someone urges you to act immediately. Consider their request carefully and confirm their identity.
Mistaken Transfer
“I accidentally sent you money! Please return it to me right away.”
TIP: Do not return any unexpected payments without first contacting your bank for verification.
Online Romance
“I’m in a medical crisis and urgently need funds. I promise to repay you quickly. Can you assist?”
TIP: Avoid sending money to individuals you’ve only communicated with online or via phone.
Computer Security Alert
“We’ve found malware on your device. Please grant me remote access so I can resolve this issue.”
TIP: Never allow remote access to your computer unless you can completely confirm the person’s identity.
ATM Assistance
“Remember to utilise the tap feature at the ATM. I can demonstrate how it works.”
TIP: Don’t accept assistance from strangers at ATMs. Stay aware of your environment and be vigilant about anyone watching your screen.
You’ve Hit the Jackpot!
“Congratulations! You’ve won a lottery prize! We need to collect taxes before releasing your winnings.”
TIP: Refrain from sending money to claim a prize; it’s likely a scam.
Home Purchase Closing
“Here are the wire instructions for closing on your property.”
TIP: Be extremely cautious about last-minute alterations to payment details; always verify with your real estate agent or loan officer directly.
Recognise the signs of ‘spoofing’ and ‘phishing’
Fraudsters may attempt to deceive you into revealing your passwords, Social Security numbers, or other private details in order to gain access to your accounts or commit identity theft.
They may employ various tactics, including phone calls, emails, text messages, or counterfeit websites. Educate yourself on their strategies and how to safeguard your information.
Spoofing: Be cautious of imposters
Scammers can “spoof” phone numbers. A call or text may appear to originate from DBS, but it could actually be a fraudster. They use this tactic to manipulate individuals into sharing personal or financial data or to persuade them to send money.
Keep in mind:
Even if your caller ID displays a call or message from DBS, it might still be a scam. If you’re unsure, hang up and contact us directly.
Learn to spot fraudulent texts from DBS.
Phishing Alert: Be Cautious of Untrustworthy Communications
Phishing refers to deceptive emails that seem legitimate but prompt you to contact a fake number, reply to the message, or visit a site to input personal details. Sometimes, you might be urged to open an attachment, which could compromise your computer if executed.
Keep in Mind:
Messages that appear suspicious often contain spelling errors or poor grammar. If you’re uncertain about the sender, avoid clicking on any links or opening attachments in the email.
To report a dubious email, please reach out to us at phishing@DBS.com.
Additionally, for reporting fraudulent calls, emails, and texts, you can visit https://ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Concerned About Identity Theft?
Act promptly if you suspect you’ve been affected. Our guide provides initial steps to help you recover your identity.
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