How can you be scammed online?

In this article, we’ll explain the most common types of online fraud today, as well as what you should do if you’ve fallen victim to one.

Today’s ‘hackers’ are becoming increasingly sophisticated, even using psychology and highly personalised messages to achieve their goals.

1. Phishing: The art of ‘fishing’ for your passwords

Phishing is the most classic scam, but it still works well. The criminal casts the ‘bait’ (usually an email that perfectly mimics the appearance of your bank, the Post Office or the National Insurance Office) in the hope that someone will take the bait.

How can you spot it? Examples of phishing

They usually alert you to a serious problem: an unauthorised transfer, an unexpected prize or a parcel that cannot be delivered due to unpaid fees.

- The invisible trap: The link in the email doesn’t take you to the official website, but to an exact copy designed to capture your username and password. As soon as you enter them, the scammer has the keys to your online banking.

2. Smishing: SMS fraud

In this case, they try to get you to click quickly and without thinking. They may also impersonate well-known companies, as in phishing cases.

3. The ‘held parcel’ scam

This is when you’re told that a parcel is being held and you have to pay a sum of money for it to be sent to you. You can find out more here.

4. The child or relative in distress: WhatsApp fraud on the rise this year.

This is one of the most cruel and effective scams today. You receive a message from an unknown number: “Hi Mum, my mobile’s broken and this is my new number. I can’t call you, but I need you to pay an urgent bill for me.”

- The hook: The emotional appeal. The victim, in a state of panic, fails to verify the identity and ends up making a Bizum payment or bank transfer to an unknown account.

How can you spot this type of WhatsApp scam?

Before paying anything, try calling the “old” number of the person they are impersonating, or ask them a question that only they would know the answer to.

What should you do if you’ve already clicked where you shouldn’t have or sent money under false pretences?

If you realise you have disclosed your details, every second counts:

1. Block your cards and set transaction limits via your bank’s app.

2. Change your login passwords immediately.

3. Report the incident to the police or the Civil Guard. This report is the cornerstone of any subsequent claim.

If you have been involved in such a case and wish to protect your rights, please contact us.