Don't Be Fooled by These Common Online Scams ...

1. Jobs … That Don't Exist

With the economy as bad as it is, many people are looking for work from home. It's convenient, especially for stay-at-home parents. But there are many, many scams offering work that doesn't exist. Be wary of any adverts offering excessive pay for work from home, or that ask for money from you. Search the name of the company plus the word 'scam' and see what comes up. It could be enlightening.

2. Friend in Trouble

You get an email from a friend telling you that they're on vacation, they've been robbed, and they desperately need money to pay their hotel bill. But it's not your friend writing; they're not on vacation, and their email has been hacked. If you get a call making the same kind of claim, verify the story; call them on their home or work phone, or check with family. But it's almost certainly a scam.

3. Apartment Rentals

When you're looking for an apartment for a vacation or to live in, be aware of scams. Some scammers place adverts 'renting' apartments that they don't own, using photos they've copied from genuine listings. Or they change the details of other listings to their own contact details. Always verify if someone genuinely owns an apartment before you send or give them money.

4. Online Dating

Many people are in very happy relationships thanks to online dating. However, it too attracts scammers who want to take advantage of people keen to find love. If someone you meet online quickly claims they've fallen in love with you, is in a hurry to talk off the site, or says they're American but working overseas, be wary. And never send money, however tragic their sob story is. They'll never meet you, and once they've got as much money as they can from you will cease contact.

5. Online Banking

Criminals may gain access to your online banking in two ways: by tricking you into giving them information, or by accessing your computer. If you get a call claiming to be from your bank, call your bank from your cell phone using an official number, not one the caller gives you. Always have your computer protected by an anti-virus program and firewall, and never clink on links asking for banking details.

6. Online Shopping

Most online shopping transactions are trouble-free. But some scammers pretend to sell goods that you'll never receive once you've paid for them. Always check the feedback and history of a seller on a auction site, if they're selling expensive items. Someone who has lots of expensive goods at well below retail price is unlikely to be genuine, as is an account that has previously only sold low-value items. Also never pay outside the site, as you will lose buyer protection and probably not get your money back.

7. Government Agency

If you receive an email that claims to be from a government agency, asking for money or your personal details, it's probably a scam. It may claim that you need to pay a fee, or are entitled to a tax rebate - if you give your bank details. Official agencies will contact you by letter, not via email.

Have you ever fallen victim to an online or telephone scam?