Know How to Protect Yourself and Avoid Scams
Scammers have become increasingly skilled at exploiting trust, urgency and confusion. From phone calls to emails to fake websites, these schemes catch millions of people off guard each year. Understanding how they work, what warning signs to look for and how to use protection services like Lumen are the best ways to stay safe. Keep reading to learn more about common scams people fall for every day.
1. Phishing Emails
Phishing remains one of the most widespread scams online. Scammers send emails that appear to be from trusted companies, urging you to click a link or provide sensitive information.
Common signs of phishing emails include:
- Spelling mistakes or odd grammar.
- Email addresses that don’t match the official domain.
- Links that redirect to unfamiliar or slightly altered URLs.
Never click unsolicited links. If something seems off, go directly to the company’s website by typing the address into your browser instead of using the link provided.
2. Fake Tech Support Calls
Tech support scams typically involve callers claiming your computer has been hacked or infected with malware. They often request remote access or payment for “repairs.”
Pay attention to the following warning signs:
- Unsolicited calls claiming your device is compromised.
- Requests for remote-control access.
- Urgent pressure to act immediately.
Legitimate tech support teams do not contact customers out of the blue. Hang up and contact the company directly using a verified phone number.
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3. Imposter Phone Scams
Phone-based impersonation scams are increasingly common, with scammers pretending to be from banks, the IRS, utilities and major mobile carriers like Verizon. A frequent tactic involves claiming to be from Verizon, saying your account has been compromised or needs verification. Their goal is to pressure you into sharing personal details, PINs or login credentials.
These imposters typically use:
- Unexpected calls requesting your account password, PIN or one-time verification code.
- Caller ID spoofing (the number may appear legitimate).
- Threats that your service will be shut off or your account locked.
Never give sensitive information to an unsolicited caller, even if the number looks official. Hang up and call Verizon directly using the number from your bill or the company’s website.
4. Online Shopping & Marketplace Scams
As online shopping grows, so do fake storefronts and fraudulent sellers on marketplaces.
Always look for:
- Prices that seem too good to be true.
- Poorly designed websites or missing contact information.
- Sellers who insist on unusual payment methods.
Research the seller, read reviews and use secure payment methods that offer purchase protection, such as credit cards or trusted platforms.
5. Lottery and Prize Scams
Scammers contact victims claiming they’ve won a prize or lottery—even though they never entered. They then ask for fees, taxes or banking details to “release” the winnings.
Be aware of:
- Being told you won a contest you never entered.
- Requests for payment upfront.
- Pressure to keep the “win” confidential.
Legitimate contests never demand payment to receive winnings. If you didn’t enter, you didn’t win.
6. Dating Scams
Online dating has opened doors for genuine relationships, but also for scammers pretending to form emotional connections in order to take money.
Common warning signs of a dating scam may include:
- Someone who quickly professes love or devotion.
- Avoidance of video calls or in-person meetings.
- Requests for financial help due to an “emergency.”
Take new online relationships slowly. Verify identities, avoid sending money and talk to friends or family if something feels suspicious.
7. Subscription Renewal & Invoice Scams
These scams often arrive via email or text, claiming your antivirus, streaming service or software subscription is about to renew for a suspiciously high amount. The message tells you to call a number to dispute the charge.
Pay attention to:
- Invoices for services you don’t use.
- Messages urging you to call immediately.
- Attempts to access your device or financial information.
Check your actual accounts instead of interacting with the message. Never allow remote access unless you initiated contact with the real company.
How Lumen Helps Protect Online Security
Staying safe online requires more than caution—modern threats evolve too quickly for individuals to manage alone. Lumen provides network-level protection, threat monitoring and advanced security tools designed to block malicious activity before it reaches users. With solutions that detect phishing attempts, stop suspicious network traffic and safeguard sensitive data, Lumen helps individuals and businesses maintain stronger digital defenses in an increasingly risky online world.
By staying aware of common scams people fall for every day and leveraging trusted security resources like Lumen, you can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to cybercriminals.
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