Internet scam

What is Online Fraud?

Online fraud is similar in nature to the fraud you may encounter in real life. Criminals usually target your money, personal information, or account. New methods and scams are constantly being developed to trick you.

How Can I Recognize Online Fraud?

• Through messages that are designed to pressure you into “acting quickly.”

• Have you seen an offer online that seems almost too good to be true? There is often a scam behind it. Always remember: Very few people simply give you something for free without expecting something in return.

• Spelling mistakes or strange-looking email addresses (such as ) can also be an indication that something is a scam.

• When you receive a suspicious message, check whether the sender has a blue verification checkmark. This usually means that the platform has verified that the account really belongs to the person or company it claims to represent. But remember: No legitimate person or company will ever ask you for your account passwords or banking details.

What Can I Do If I Have Fallen for a Scam?

As difficult as it may sound, the most important thing is to stay calm at first — there is nothing to be ashamed of.

The following steps are important:

1. Do not transfer any more money and, if possible, cancel or stop payments immediately.

2. Change the relevant passwords.

3. Inform your bank or payment service provider about what happened.

4. Secure any possible evidence.

5. Report the scam to us and to the police.

How Can I Best Protect Myself?

• Never give out your personal information.

• Stay cautious, no matter how tempting an offer may seem at first.

• Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA).

• Simply Google your situation as well — someone else may already have experienced a similar scam.

What Are the Most Common Types of Online Scams?

Phishing (fake messages/emails) [Link to phishing article?]

• Messages that look legitimate at first glance and are designed to shock or scare you into taking action:
  “Your account has been blocked! Act now to avoid losing access.”

Fake Shops

• Websites may sell products such as Adidas clothing at an apparently unbeatable price. However, after you pay, nothing arrives and your money is gone.

Love or Romance Scamming

• Scammers pretend to be a romantic partner or friend on online platforms, build trust with you, and eventually ask you for money.

Subscription Traps and Fake Downloads

• A seemingly free subscription (“Get our Premium version — completely free!”) can sign you up for an expensive subscription.

• Free full versions of programs such as Photoshop or popular games are not simply available for free — no matter how large or eye-catching the download button is.