Online (and Offline) Scams and How To Avoid Them

1. “You Just Bought Something!” Emails

You check your inbox and find a receipt for something you never ordered. Maybe it’s Norton antivirus software, with a charge of $349.99 or even $479.51.

Naturally, your first thought is, “Wait a minute—I didn’t buy that!”

That’s exactly the reaction the scammer wants. The email includes a phone number for canceling the purchase or requesting a refund. But the supposed purchase is just bait. The trouble starts when you call and the person on the other end begins asking for information or access to your computer.

Before reacting, look closely at the sender’s full email address—not just the display name. In one example from the video, the “Norton billing team” uses an address that has nothing to do with Norton. Other clues include awkward wording, an unusually high price, and strange formatting in the phone number.

Those clues are warnings, but a polished email isn’t proof that a message is legitimate, either.

Don’t call the number, open an unexpected attachment, or reply. If you’re concerned about a charge, check your account through your bank’s app or a website you normally use. Contact the company independently if needed. Otherwise, mark the message as spam and delete it.

2. The Surprise “Tech Support” Call

Someone calls out of the blue claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, Google, or another technology company. They say they’ve discovered a problem with your computer and need to connect to it.

Hang up.

An unsolicited call claiming your computer needs immediate repair is a major warning sign. Don’t give the caller passwords, payment information, or remote access to your device.

There’s a difference between an unexpected call and a callback you arranged after contacting support yourself. Even then, if something feels wrong, end the call and contact the company through its official support channel.

3. Suspicious Links—Even From Familiar Names

An email from a friend says, “Look at this funny picture!” or “You have to see this video!”

It might be real. But a familiar name doesn’t guarantee a safe message. Someone’s account may have been compromised, or a scammer may be impersonating them.

If the message is generic, unexpected, or just doesn’t sound like that person, don’t click. Ask them about it through a separate text or phone call.

And if you already opened the email? Don’t panic. Simply reading a suspicious message usually doesn’t mean your device is infected. Avoid its links and attachments, and delete it.

The habit to remember is simple: pause before you react. An alarming receipt, an urgent caller, or a tempting link can wait while you check things out.