The internet has become more dangerous during the pandemic conditions. People are spending more time online than ever before. Working remotely, shopping online, meeting with friends, and dating. These are all activities that are taking place on the internet more often than before, and scammers know it. Everybody is gathered in this virtual reality and this creates more opportunities for scammers to steal your money. In other words, 2020 has been a glorious year so far for internet criminals: they know where to find their victims, they have grabbed on to the hot topic of the moment (Covid-19) to create all kinds of fraud, and they also know people are receiving relief checks from their governments, so more cash is available!

Business for scammers couldn’t get any better. That is why Russian private investigators have created a list of online risks that you should be aware of.

Same old dating scam, different excuses

Russian romance scammers have been conducting their nasty business for years. The difference now is that Covid-19 is a perfect excuse. The pandemic has cause unemployment to rise exponentially, and there are millions of sick people all around the world. In these conditions it is more believable to stumble into someone who is need of financial help, either because they claim to be unemployed and unable to pay their bills, hospitalized or having to face hardship due to a relative’s death. Real people are going through this currently, so scammers are taking advantage of it. In addition, travel bans have also helped keep the situation going for longer, as the relationships have to remain long distance.

The best tool to fight Russian romance scammers is a thorough background check investigation. Hire a private detective to verify the identity and background of the person you met, and you won’t have to worry with falling victim.

Fake Verification Messages

If you use social media or apps you know that many services request people to verify their identity with a code sent through text message or an email. Since many formalities and service requests are now handled online internet scammers are using this technique to deceive people. If you get an unrequested verification code, that’s a red flag.  Criminals are phishing by hitting you up with multiple messages over and over again, hoping you will bite. If you click the link, they’ve got you. There are many scams out there regarding the use of fake verification codes that lead you to links asking for passwords and other personal information. Once criminals have your personal information and credentials, you’re open to many other types of fraud.

Blackmail

Adult sites and matching making is more virtual than ever. People are lonely and bored when confined, and more likely to accept sex-related invitations online. The problem with this is that you never know who is really on the other side. Criminals take nude pictures of their victims while on the webcam, and then blackmail them. They will threaten to post the pictures online, send them to co-workers, bosses, family, etc. Do not engage in sexual activities with a stranger online.  Never do anything online you wouldn’t be comfortable with sharing with your family, friends or co-workers.  The internet is not a very safe place to be.

Be careful with everything you share, with whom you talk and with the sites you visit. These days the odds of getting scammed are greater. If you meet someone online, take the time to verify and consult a professional.  Contact us for a free quote today!

C. Wright
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