How do I recognize fake websites?

Designing fake websites is easy, and they can appear very similar to the real websites. They can duplicate logos, colour schemes, product or login screens, making them appear genuine. If you know how to find a fake website, you'll avoid losing your password, unsafe transactions, malware, and possibly even your identity. There are a few easy things that can be done to determine whether there are warning signs and if so, to stop.

Be sure to read the web address carefully

Use a website address. Look for words that are misspelled, added words, unusual symbols or unusual domains. A fake site may have an address similar to that of a genuine site of a business without being the real domain name.

Check for its use of HTTPS connection. If a padlock is displayed it only means that the connection is encrypted, not that the website is trustworthy. Scammers can also employ encrypted connections.

Read the clear contact and company details

The website should generally include details on who is running it and, if the site is not trustworthy, these details should be made apparent. If a physical address, working contact info, support info and company info are available, seek them out.

Take extra precautions if there is no contact information and only a contact form; if it is a free email address associated with a large business; or if it offers information that can't be verified. Search for the company all on its own.

Look out for pressure and unusual offers

Often fake websites will attempt to get visitors to act quickly. These messages can decrease the likelihood you'll take the time to read through the information: “Pay now”, “Your account will close today”, “There is limited time”.

Be suspicious of bargains that seem too good to be true, random prizes or a request for payment now. Verify information with trusted sources before inputting information.

Read through the Website's content

Read through the pages thoroughly. Common spelling mistakes, broken links, copy-pasted content, grammatical errors, and unclear policies are some of the common errors people often make. One error isn't necessarily a red flag, but several factors should be considered.

Be sure to view pages like Privacy Policy, Refund Policy, Terms of Use, and Shipping Information. These pages should be simple to read and have a single theme. If some crucial information is missing, you may want to leave the site.

Make sure all links are correct before you click on them

Be aware that not all buttons or links are safe. Hover over it with the pointer to see where it goes, over a computer network. Avoid opening anything that looks suspicious on a phone, but if your browser allows you to hold a link down when you're on a phone.

If you're not sure, enter the official website address into the search box or use a search that you know is trustworthy. Double check the domain on a second source. When the destination has been verified by outside sources, use the “genuine or authentic website click here”.

Protect your personal information

No more information on a web site than is necessary to accomplish the task. Be careful if there is e.g. a purchase or account check that asks for sensitive information which is not relevant.

Don't give any passcodes, one time codes, PINs or recovery codes when prompted by an unusual website. If you've input sensitive data, change affected passwords and contact your bank/service provider.

More Tutorial: https://m.incallup.com/blogs/Tutorials/what-is-healthy-communication

How to not fall for a fake website?

If two or more signs occur, stop use of the site. Refrain from downloading files, installing browser extensions, putting payment information in, or from creating an account. Close the Web Page and verify with another reliable source.

Contact your payment gateway or financial institution if you have paid for or given financial information. If you have set a password, do not use it for other services and change it from the official service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1. Can HTTPS ensure a site's security?

A. No, HTTPS is there to secure the connection, but scammers could be as well. Seeing the domain, site details and other warnings.

Q2. Are they generally reliable and have a ton of reviews?

A. Not automatically. Copied reviews or fake reviews could be possible. Compare independently on feedback.

Q3. If I have followed a suspicious link what should I do?

A. Do not put in information or download files. Close the page and conduct security checks of the page.

Q4. Are there any professional looking fake websites?

A. Yes. A fake website can be an exact replica of a true company. Review domain and organisation independently.

Q5. Does a low price mean that it's a fake site?

A. If there is no information about the company's business, and the payment is urgent, it could be a warning sign.