October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, a perfect time to focus on protecting yourself online. As we spend more time using digital platforms, the risk of falling victim to cyber scams is increasing. This is especially true in Sri Lanka, where more people are using platforms like ikman for buying, selling, and finding jobs.
At ikman, we are dedicated to ensuring your online safety. As cyber scams evolve, it is more important than ever to stay informed and aware of the risks. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common types of scams, how they work, and how you can protect yourself.
The Cyber Threats Facing Sri Lanka
With more people going online, cyber scams are becoming more common in Sri Lanka. Scammers target individuals and businesses in various ways. Some of the most common scams include phishing, identity theft, and fake online listings. If we don’t stay alert, anyone can fall victim to these crimes.
It’s crucial to understand how these scams work. This will help you recognize the red flags and take action to protect yourself. Let’s take a closer look at the most frequent online scams.
Common Online Scams and How to Stay Safe
1. Phishing Scams
Phishing is one of the most common online scams. In this type of scam, criminals send fake emails or messages that look real. These emails might seem like they are from a trusted source, such as a bank. The goal is to trick you into clicking a link or sharing sensitive information.
How to avoid phishing:
Always double-check the sender’s email address. If something seems off, do not click on the links. When in doubt, contact the company directly to verify if the message is genuine.
2. Fake Product Listings and Job Offers
On platforms like ikman, scammers sometimes post fake product listings or job offers. They lure victims with great deals or job opportunities that don’t exist. Often, they ask for money upfront or personal details before disappearing.
How to avoid fake listings:
Before making any payments or sharing personal details, always verify the seller or employer. Use ikman’s communication tools to interact safely. Never send money without confirming the authenticity of the deal.
3. Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information, like your NIC number or bank details. Scammers can use this information to commit fraud, open accounts in your name, or steal your money.
How to avoid identity theft:
Be cautious when sharing personal information online. Only provide such details on secure websites that use “https.” Also, monitor your bank accounts regularly for any unusual activity.
4. Account Takeovers
An account takeover happens when a scammer gains access to your online accounts. Once they’re in, they can change your settings, lock you out, or steal money.
How to prevent account takeovers:
Use strong, unique passwords for each account. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security. Also, update your passwords regularly to keep your accounts safe.
ikman’s Safety Features
At ikman, we prioritize your safety. We have several features in place to protect you from scams.
- User Verification
We verify the identity of users posting ads on our platform. This helps build trust between buyers and sellers, reducing the risk of fraud. - Secure Transactions
We recommend meeting sellers in public places and using cash-on-delivery. This way, you can inspect the item before paying for it. This makes the transaction safer for both parties. - Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter a suspicious ad or user, you can report it to us. Our team will investigate the issue and take action, such as removing the ad or blocking the user.
Tips for Staying Safe on ikman
To ensure your safety on ikman, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Verify before you trust: Always check the seller’s or employer’s profile and reviews before proceeding. Verified users are more reliable.
- Meet in public places: When buying or selling, choose a safe public location to meet. This way, both parties can feel secure during the exchange.
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true: Scammers often use low prices or amazing job offers to tempt victims. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Protect your personal information: Never share sensitive details, like your home address or financial information, with strangers online.
Cyber Security Awareness Month reminds us how important it is to stay safe online. While platforms like ikman offer great convenience, they also come with risks. Staying informed and adopting safe practices can help protect you from cyber scams.
At ikman, we are committed to ensuring a secure online experience for our users. By following the tips in this blog and staying alert, you can browse, buy, and sell safely. Let’s work together to create a safer digital environment for all.
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