Since 2011 there have been a series of phishing scams going around plaguing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Generating fictitious social media profiles to funnel unsuspecting consumers into whatever deeds these scammers may be reeling and dealing, it is imperative that social media users are more aware of their surroundings than ever.
Remember the old saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is..”
Starbucks, the robust coffee conglomerate, is amongst the latest name brand to be dragged through the virtual smug emitted from valueless phishing scams that are set on stealing and selling your information to the highest bidder.
3 Ways of Avoiding Phishing Scams
Apply the Golden Rule
When in doubt when it comes to earning money online from home or any form of online compensation in exchange for minimum effort than chances are you are facing a sticky, precarious and likely solicitous offer.
By applying the Golden Rule, which is the old saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is…” and using the simple truth to avoid ridiculous, too-good-to-be-true scams then you are doing what the rule was intended for.
The Golden Rule is applicable to both online and offline ventures and is pretty much known on a global scale.
Oftentimes reputable brands such as Nike, Amazon, Starbucks, Walmart, McDonalds, Google, Apple, etc get dragged in involuntarily to these phishing scams which take route oftentimes through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Conduct a WHOIS report
Phishing scams rely heavily upon squeeze sites and meticulously crafted funnel pages that are used to lure in unsuspecting consumers into questionable online earning opportunities.
By baiting consumers through the promise of rich reward through minimum work on their end besides a meager upfront investment, it goes without little wonder why many inexperienced consumers fall victims to such scams.
However, one way to check the legitimacy of some sites would be to compare any reference dates on their sites to the creation date of their domain, which can be found by entering the URL of the website at whois.com.
Reach out to Experts
When it doubt reach out to those who have experience in conducting investigative reviews to determine the legitimacy of a particular online opportunity.
With this mind we want to reiterate the fact that if you guys ever need help you can always reach out to us!
What To Do if Scammed
If you have been scammed online then it is important to remember that time is of the essence and is your most valuable resource.
If you suspect that you have been scammed through a transaction that involved finances then make sure to contact your financial institution immediately, express your concerns and request a chargeback.
From there you should consider contacting local authorities to escalate matter furthers.
To spread awareness of your experience you can alway share your experiences online through review portals such as our own to have your voice heard by the thousands of readers who view our site.
Social Media Phishing Scams
Aggressive marketing campaigns conducted through social media platforms are one of the most common vessels utilized by scammers to disperse their toxic phishing scams to consumer markets stocked with unsuspecting consumers.
This has been seen time and time again.
Take for instance our spark to compose this review, Starbucks has officially announced the return of their Happy Hour – which has resulted in many fictitious, malicious Starbucks scam offers going viral.
This issue first took root back in October of 2011 when Facebooks users allegedly offered free Starbuck gift cards in exchange for a variety of services, according to Snopes.
Inexperienced consumers seeking these freebies were required to share Facebook posts, comment to the scammer’s site and participate in surveys which never ended pretty.
Community Feedback
Long traces of phishing scams conducted through social media outlets are littered throughout the web.
Unfortunately, these phishing scams are ever-changing and are almost becoming an accepted norm amongst social media users who possess the insight to avoid such schemes.
With this in mind if you have any relevant experiences to share we invite you share your insight below, your experiences may help others avoid similar scams in the times to come.
Starbucks Happy Hour Card Review
Starbucks, McDonalds, Nike, Walmart, Amazon, Apple and countless other brand names known across the world are being dragged, unknowingly, into thousands of phishing scams that are circulating and taking root online.
Evading these scams can become an effortless skill set you can acquire if you apply the 3 Ways of Avoiding Phishing Scams shared above.
Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!
Outcome: Avoid Too-Good-To-Be-True Gift Card Scams
Visit our Guide below to supplement your income online through community-backed and verified investment solutions.