Can You Spot an Online Scam?

14 February 2025
BLOG, COMMUNITY
1 min read.

In today’s digital world, online scams are more common than ever. From phishing emails to fake online stores, cybercriminals use various tactics to trick people into giving away their personal information.

On Tuesday, 11th February, we marked #SaferInternetDay, a global initiative dedicated to promoting online safety. This year’s theme focused on recognising and avoiding scamsan essential skill for anyone who spends time online.

Learning to Stay Safe Online

A person wearing a grey beanie and coat is seated at a table, looking at a Chromebook screen displaying a document with text. Another participant, wearing a blue vest, is using a laptop in the background. A can of Coca-Cola sits on the table, along with printed worksheets. The setting appears to be a group learning or training session.

At the Digital Workshop Group at Weoley Castle Community Centre, we explored different types of scams, including:

Phishing – Fraudulent emails or messages designed to steal your personal details.

Online Shopping Scams – Fake websites or sellers that trick buyers into paying for non-existent goods.

Impersonation Scams – Criminals pretending to be someone you trust, like a bank representative or a government official.

Romance Scams – Scammers build fake relationships to manipulate victims into sending money.

Money Muling – Unknowingly helping criminals move stolen money by transferring funds.

How We Improved Our Scam Awareness

Through interactive quizzes from the UK Safer Internet Centre, our group tested their knowledge, learned how to spot scams, and discovered ways to stay safe online. We also discussed the importance of reporting anything suspicious to prevent others from becoming victims.

By the end of the session, our group felt more confident navigating the digital world, equipped with the skills to protect themselves and others from online fraud.

How You Can Stay Safe Online

Want to improve your online security? Here are a few tips:

Think Before You Click – Be cautious of unexpected links or attachments in emails.

Verify the Source – Check if a website or seller is legitimate before making a purchase.

Use Strong Passwords – Create unique passwords for different accounts.

Stay Alert – If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Report Suspicious Activity – If you suspect a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities.

Final Thoughts

Scams can happen to anyone, but by staying informed and cautious, we can all play a part in making the internet a safer place.

Did you know about these scams? Have you ever encountered one? Share your experience in the comments and help spread awareness!

For more online safety resources, visit the UK Safer Internet Centre website. Let’s work together to stay safe online!