9 Tips for Avoiding AI Scams and Staying Safe Online
Disclaimer: The article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
The internet is a fantastic place to connect, learn, and have fun. But, just like exploring a new city, it's important to be careful and smart. After the introduction of AI technology scammers are getting smarter. They are using deepfake technologies to impersonate the facial as well as vocal identity of the person. So remember in this age to protect yourself from AI scams you must focus on the following tagline for any uncomfortable events:
"What you see virtually is often what you should doubt"
Understanding technology adoption is a way to understand its potential risks, so upskilling yourself is also important to gain more knowledge about AI scams.
Let's learn some easy ways to protect yourself from online tricksters and have the best digital lifestyle by following these tricks:
1. Create Superhero Passwords:
Think of your passwords like your awesome sidekick! Use capital letters, numbers, and even symbols (like % or &). Avoid using your name or birthday, and change them regularly! Dont store your passwords with 3rd party apps & without any encryption. Always use different passwords for every website/app. This helps you to protect yourself during a data breach.
2. Trust Your Spidey-Sense :
If an email, text, DM or website seems weird, don't click on any links or share your secret info. Do a little detective work to make sure it's safe. Nowadays scammers started blackmailing techniques using deepfake to scare you from random issues.
3. Spot Fake Websites with Eagle Eyes :
Before you type in your details, look for a tiny lock icon near the web address. Use trusted extensions like a web of trust to understand the quality of websites. Looking into website URLs is also important as phishing websites are rapidly growing.
4. Update Your Digital Armor :
Install the latest updates on your computer and phone. These updates patch up any weaknesses that bad guys might exploit. Using a trusted antivirus or VPN service is important for an extra layer of security.
5. Use Secure Wi-Fi :
Using Wi-Fi at cafes or hotels is great, but avoid doing any financial or sensitive transactions from that network. Most of the public networks are vulnerable, it may leak your sensitive data or session hacking may happen from that network.
6. Keep Your Awesome Life a Bit Private :
Think carefully before sharing too much information online. Limit what strangers know about you. People can use AI to misuse your identity. Always confirm the legitimacy of any urgency initiated by family & friends. Deepfake & image morphing is going to create big hurdles in near future.
7. Stay Smart and Up-to-Date:
Learn about scammers' latest tricks. This knowledge helps you outsmart them. Online security forums can help you educate yourself about latest technology scams in the market.
8. Use Caution When Talking to Strangers Online:
Be cautious when engaging in conversations with strangers online, particularly in forums, chat rooms, dating apps, or social media platforms. Be thoughtful about what information you share with people you meet online, and think twice before engaging in private conversations with people you don’t know. Remember that not everyone you meet online may have good intentions, and it’s important to prioritize your safety and privacy. For more information on how to safely talk to strangers online, check out this resource: https://www.
9. Listen to Your Inner Hero:
If something feels wrong, walk away! Your gut feeling protects you. Always be cautious while doing big transactions online. Set a daily limit to your bank account and enable all required transactional notifications. Use credit cards over debit cards for better security and safety.
Conclusion:
By following these tips, you can improve your online AI safety and minimize the risk of becoming a victim of online scams. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe as you navigate the internet. With just a little bit of care, your internet activities can be amazing! Remember, you have the power to protect yourself and your awesome information.
