Protect yourself from online scams: Google tells you how
Photo Credit: Pexels If you are using a smartphone, laptop or any other gadget for some online work or the other, you are under threat from cybercriminals.
Photo Credit: Pexels To make sure you remain safe, you have to recognise the threat. So, here is what Google wants you to do.
Photo Credit: Pexels These Google tips will save you from scams that want to steal your money. Scams can be from all types of sources - Email, apps, phone calls, social media platforms, or even fraudulent websites.
Photo Credit: Pexels Google has recently issued this warning to users regarding a scam involving Play Store gift cards. Google has revealed red flags that you should watch out for to find out if you are being targetted.
Photo Credit: Pexels Google says, "Someone might be trying to scam you if they ask you to buy a Google Play gift card and share the code so that you can pay for something outside Google Play."
Photo Credit: Pexels Here is what you need to watch out for: Google says fraudsters may employ tactics wherein they impersonate government officials.
Photo Credit: Unsplash The scammer may claim that you owe money for various reasons such as taxes, or debt. The scammer will insist on payment through Play Store gift cards.
Photo Credit: Pexels Not just govt officials, a fraudster can also pose as a family member, or a representative of your family member.
Photo Credit: Pixabay They make false claims about your family member being in trouble and insist that payment in gift cards is necessary to resolve the situation.
Photo Credit: Pixabay Notably, they may discourage you from contacting the actual family member to verify the claim. What can you do in this situation?
Photo Credit: Pexels First of all, report the gift card scam to your local police department if you have fallen victim to it.
Photo Credit: Pexels Report it to Google. This can aid in safeguarding your and others from similar scams in the future.
Photo Credit: Pexels Finally, do not use Google Play gift cards for purposes other than what they are intended for - to make purchases on Google Play. Above do not share the code located on the back of the gift card with anyone.
Click here