06/08/2025
Know the Signs of a Scam Website
1. Look out for unusual URL or Domain Names, as well as misspellings made to tick you at a glance. Some examples of this would be, amaz0n.com, g00gle.net or something similar to this.
2. The use of strange domain endings like .xyz, .top, or .info
What you would normally expect is .com or .co.uk
3. No HTTPS, this is something you would see at the start of a web address. Scam sites may not use encryption this would show as http:// This is a very small difference to watch out for, as it's only the 'S' that's been removed.
4. Look for the padlock icon in the browser’s address bar, this is a good sign that the site you're visiting is safe.
5. Keep an eye out for poor website design and grammar. If it doesn't look quite right don't trust it. This also includes if you see 'too good to be true' deals. Seeing extremely low prices or unrealistic offers are common scam tactics.
6. No Contact Info or Fake Info can be present on these sites. It's best before buying anything, if you're not sure to check and test for a working phone number, email, or physical address. If you try using the 'contact form' does anyone respond to you?
7. Look for reviews of the site on google. Search using the site’s name and add "scam" or "reviews" at the end, to see what others are saying.
What would be a scam pop-up warning?
1. Seeing "Your Computer is Infected!" your computer wouldn't show that you have a virus in this way. Real virus warnings would only come from your antivirus software, not from your internet browser.
2. If it tells you to take immediate action "Call Microsoft/Apple immediately" or "Click Here to Fix" then this is also fake.
3. Auto-playing Audio, Alarms, Loud beeping or voice warnings are all scare tactics used to make you act quickly and panic in the moment. Don't click on what shows up and close the tab. If this doesn't close easily force close the browser instead. To do this it's Ctrl+Shift+Esc on Windows and Cmd+Option+Esc on Mac
Tips to stay safe.
1. Use a reputable antivirus and ad-blocker. If you need one, we offer Emsisoft starting at £30 for the year, get in touch with us to find out more.
2. Check URLs before clicking to the website.
3. Avoid downloading software from random websites.
4. Trust your gut, if it feels off, it probably is.