Let’s say I was looking for some technical help on your computer, I go into the search bar and type “Tech Support” I click on the first link you see. I have just made a critical error on my computer and my own safety. There are millions of people that make this mistake everyday. This can lead someone to having their information completely wiped. Yet there are ways to avoid these fake websites while still finding what we want and keeping our information safe. 

The first thing that should be looked at is the URL, fake websites use slightly alternated or misspelled URLs compared to the real websites. The next step is to look for HTTPS, that is an encryption that secures your connection. Looking for a padlock icon within the address bar, you can be sure that that website is encrypting your data between you and that server. The third step is to do some research on that website and make sure to look at reviews, feedback, and complaints from other users. The fourth step is to check for unrealistic offers, most fake websites offer deals that just sound too good to be true. It is extremely important to look for those offers. And finally trust your own instinct if you spot something wrong with the website then it is best not to trust that website. 

Some example on how to spot fake websites:

BankoffAmerica.com (realize how there is a extra “f” in the work “of”)

Paypal.com.secure-site.com (“note that the additional domain is “secure-site.com” and not “paypal.com”)

WaImart.com (this is much harder to see but an uppercase “i” is being used instead of a lowercase “l”)