Fake Links and False Messages: Beware of Dangerous Online Traps

Messages such as “your card will be blocked,” “you have won a prize” or “verify your account” can pressure people into acting quickly. Scammers use them to direct users to fake pages and obtain passwords, banking information or verification codes. This deception is called phishing and can spread through email, SMS, social networks and messaging services.

A fake page may look almost identical to an organisation’s genuine website. A logo, formal wording and a familiar name do not guarantee trustworthiness. Differences in the website address, unexpected payment demands and requests for confidential information require caution. Correct spelling does not establish that a message is genuine either.

Do not use the link or telephone number in a suspicious message to verify it. Check through an official website, application or contact channel you already know. Confirm unusual requests from familiar people through another communication method: someone else may have gained access to their account.

Students and staff should be cautious about unexpected messages asking them to “enter details for a scholarship,” “follow the manager’s instructions” or “download a document.” Do not install unknown files or applications, or share verification codes. Check the source before forwarding a message to a group; when warning others, avoid circulating a clickable malicious link.

If you have opened a suspicious link, close the page and do not follow further instructions. Opening a link alone does not mean that all your information has been stolen. If you entered a password, change it using a trusted device, end unfamiliar active sessions and enable two-step verification. Replace the password on other services where you used it as well.

If banking information or a payment verification code was exposed, contact your bank immediately. If you ran a suspicious file or installed an application, carry out a device security check and seek professional assistance where necessary. Preserve the message and transaction records, and report any resulting harm to the police. Taking time to verify information is an important habit for staying safe online.