What series of events or what actually happens when you click on those scammy or dangerous links? How do they actually do you harm?
In: Technology
Normally the initial click is not the issue (unless it wants to download and install something) You normally run the risk of being redirected to a site where further danger exists.
So as an example you go to a site that spoofs(pretends to be) a legit site and tries to convince you to input personal info. Maybe they say you need to create an account before you proceed so you input an email and contact info and password then they check that email and password combo with other common sites on the off chance they can get access…(so many people use yhe same password for everything). If they can’t get access they use the forgot password link and if it asks for your pets name or first car etc then they send you a reminder email to update the security for the account you created on their spoof site, they ask those questions and just like that they have your other account now. (This is only one scenario but many more exist that are way more sneaky and clever about how they trick you).
If you ever suspect anything then rather google that link followed by “scam” or “is it safe” and look for published warnings. Many will show up straight away but some do slip through the net so be careful.
If you have not requested anything and a link arrives for something you supposedly “requested” then that should ring alarm bells!
I am no cyber expert and I am offering this advice based on personal experiences having helped family members who have been scammed/hacked/defrauded.
Be safe all!
It depends on the purpose behind the link. For instance, clicking on a link can simply register to the spammer that your email address is valid, their message got through your spam filter, and you’re gullible enough to click on a link. They can now move you to a list of people they can target.
Other links simply try to download a virus right away and hope that you’ll install the virus and go from there.
Other links go to fake websites that look like it’s PayPal or your bank account or anything else. They’re hoping you’ll give them more data such as:
* your password to that site, or
* failing the login, you try to go to their fake password reset where they can ask frequently asked questions like mothers maiden name, dob, etc
The purpose is to get more data they can use on either the website they’re trying to fake and/or try to login to other websites you use – including email accounts.
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