How to spot a scammer

By Ejiofor Toochi Cynthia

Nigeria’s crime rate has risen dramatically in recent years with people finding dubious means to extort others of their hard earned money. They could contact you via phone, email, postal mail or text message. These thieves also devise schemes mostly through online platforms like social media, websites and the likes. Both the educated and uneducated can fall to fraudsters. So how can one avoid being a victim of scam?

Scammers sometimes use quick money schemes to entice individuals. They promise high returns, without financial risk. As unbelievable as it may appear, some desperate people have been known to fall for such lies. Know that you cannot get wealthy in a matter of days and stay away from such gimmicks.

Scammers frequently pose as representatives of organizations you are familiar with. They can impersonate well-known brands (such as banks) in order to get personal information like account numbers and passwords. They could place a call, send you a text or email. However, never provide your personal or financial information in response to a request you didn’t expect. As a result, before applying for anything, double-check the source. Check the person’s background and even confirm the email or number on the Internet. Daniel was scammed five years ago when he received a text message from GTB stating that his account had been suspended. I needed to call a number or visit the nearest bank of which I picked the former. The person asked for the details of my card which I foolishly obliged without knowing it was a scam and that’s how I lost all my money.” He has never been scammed again because he has taken precautions. He can easily identify them because they’re impatient, hot tempered and proud when convincing you to give them your private details or invest in their ponzi schemes. He also double-checks the phone number or email addresses.

We frequently come across websites or search engines, such as Chrome, that are littered with adverts and links. Scammers claim that there is an ‘issue’ or that there is a ‘prize’. This is solely for the purpose of attracting your attention and gaining access to your device. Keep an eye out for URLs that may contain viruses. They might try to gain access to your social media accounts. 

Scammers pressure you to take action right away. They aren’t always direct and to the point. Some may come up with Pyramid Schemes like Loom that requires getting new participants to pay the early birds. It’s quite frequent in today’s higher institutions.

Avoid falling for messages from government officials that seem too good to be true. You can easily confirm it online. Stop and talk to someone you trust before investing or making payments. Block unwanted calls and text messages. Report if you suspect someone of fraudulent activities especially those with fake profiles. 

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