Why Are Online Scams Becoming More Common? With the increasing use of the internet for everyday activities like shopping, banking, and communication, the number of online scams is on the rise.

Scammers employ sophisticated techniques to exploit careless users, making online security more crucial than ever. HNB, the Tax Administration, Split Airport, Hrvatske Vode, and HAK are some of the well-known organizations whose websites were hacked over the past two years. In total, there were more than 30 such attacks in 2023.

NIS2 is a directive that represents the most comprehensive EU cybersecurity legislation to date. As a result, hundreds of thousands of EU organizations will need to reassess their cybersecurity measures.

What Are Online Scams?

Online scams are malicious activities designed to steal users’ personal data, money, or identities through digital channels.

Types of Scams and How They Work:

• Phishing – Fake emails or messages that request sensitive information.
• Fake Online Stores – Websites that lure users with unbelievable offers but never deliver the goods.
• Social Media Scams – Fake profiles or ads that trick users into clicking on malicious links.

What Is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, devices, and data from cyber threats such as unauthorized access, data theft, attacks, or information damage. Its goal is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information, helping to combat cybercrime.

Most Common Types of Online Scams

• Phishing – Scammers send emails that appear to come from legitimate institutions, like banks, asking users to enter their personal information.
• Fake Offers and Discounts – Websites offering products at unrealistically low prices to lure customers.
• Prize Scams – Fake notifications about winning a prize that request payment for “shipping fees.”
• Social Media Scams – Ads leading to malicious sites or fake profiles seeking friendship to collect personal information.

How to Spot Online Scams

Criminals use social engineering to achieve various goals, such as collecting personal data, taking over accounts, stealing identities, initiating unauthorized payments, or prompting actions not in your interest—like sending money or sharing sensitive information.

Even a single careless click can seriously compromise your security.

Watch out for these warning signs:

• Unusual email addresses or URLs that look legitimate but contain extra letters or numbers.
• Offers that seem “too good to be true.”
• Urgent messages demanding immediate action, like entering a password or making a payment.
• Websites lacking security indicators (e.g., “https” in the URL).

How to Report an Online Scam

Report scams to local authorities, your bank, or a national computer security center like CERT.

Best Tools for Online Security
Reliable antivirus programs, VPNs, and password managers help protect your data.

What to Do If You Click a Suspicious Link
Immediately run a full antivirus scan and change passwords for important accounts.

Can Lost Money Be Recovered After a Scam?
It depends on the situation and your bank, but reporting the issue promptly increases the chances of recovering funds.

Steps to Protect Yourself from Online Scams

• Use Strong Passwords – Make sure your passwords are complex and unique for each platform.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication – This extra layer of security protects your accounts even if your password is compromised.
• Check Website Security – Look for SSL certificates (lock icon in the browser) before entering any information.
• Ignore Suspicious Messages – Don’t click links in emails from unknown senders and avoid downloading attachments.
• Use Antivirus Programs – Keep your device updated and use trusted antivirus tools.
• Use a VPN – A Virtual Private Network helps reduce risks like data interception or identity theft on unsecured networks. It encrypts your internet connection, keeping your passwords, financial transactions, and sensitive information safe even on public Wi-Fi.

What to Do If You Become a Victim

If you’ve been scammed, take these steps immediately:

• Report the Scam – Contact local authorities or specialized institutions like CERT (Computer Emergency Response Team).
• Change Passwords – Update passwords for all affected accounts.
• Contact Your Bank – If financial information was compromised, notify your bank and freeze accounts if necessary.
• Inform Others – Share your experience to help others avoid similar scams.

How to Educate Others About Online Scams

Raising awareness about online security is key to reducing risk:

• Share verified information on social media.
• Organize educational sessions in your community or workplace.
• Encourage people to be cautious with personal information online.

In Conclusion

Online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and your data. Regularly check your online security and educate others to help create a safer digital environment.