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The Top 3 Common Online Scams to Watch Out for in 2025

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Online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting people from all walks of life. Here are three of the most common scams to be aware of this year, along with tips to help you stay safe.


1. Phishing Scams

Phishing remains one of the most widespread and dangerous online scams. Scammers send fake emails, text messages, or create bogus websites that appear to come from trusted organisations such as banks, government agencies, or well-known companies. The goal is to trick you into revealing sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, or national insurance numbers.

Signs of a phishing scam:

  • Urgent requests for personal information
  • Suspicious links or attachments
  • Poor spelling and grammar
  • Generic greetings, such as “Dear Customer”

How to stay safe:

  • Always verify the sender’s identity.
  • Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages.
  • Never share personal details through unverified communications.

2. Online Shopping Scams

With the rise of online shopping, scammers are taking advantage by creating fake websites or posting fraudulent listings on legitimate platforms. They often lure victims with incredibly low prices for popular items, leading to payments for products that never arrive or receiving counterfeit goods.

Tips to avoid online shopping scams:

  • Shop only from trusted retailers or verified sellers.
  • Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.
  • Check for “https” in the website’s URL to ensure it’s secure.
  • Use safe payment methods, such as credit cards or recognised platforms like PayPal.

3. Social Media Scams

Social media is increasingly used by scammers to carry out fraud, including romance scams, fake giveaways, and identity theft. They may create fake profiles, send phishing links through direct messages, or use social engineering tactics to gain trust and access personal information.

Common social media scams include:

  • Fake friend requests
  • Phishing links sent via messages
  • Fraudulent contests or giveaways
  • Impersonation of celebrities or influencers

How to protect yourself:

  • Be cautious of unsolicited messages or requests.
  • Verify the identity of new contacts before engaging.
  • Avoid sharing sensitive information publicly.

By staying informed about these common scams and practising good online safety habits, you can greatly reduce your chances of falling victim to cybercrime in 2025. Stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to seek advice if something feels off.

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