A SECURITY expert has revealed five phrases you should avoid searching for on Google.
Cybercriminals are said to hide behind these phrases, hoping you’ll click on their malicious websites and links.
Alain Vartanian, the co-founder, and head of search engine optimization at Customer Service Number, highlighted the problematic searches.
Below are his five pieces of advice.
EASY LOANS
Cybercriminals tend to exploit people who are in financial distress.
They set up scam websites in the hope of stealing your bank details.
“Instead of turning to Google for financial aid, seek financial services from recognized banks and lenders,” Alain advises.
QUICK WAY TO MAKE MONEY
Searching for quick money-making schemes can bring up some legitimate ideas as well as investment scams.
You may see adverts for get-rich-quick pyramid schemes that are too good to be true.
Alain says: “Don’t fall victim to pyramid schemes, and if you want to invest, seek the help of a reputable investment broker or financial advisor.”
HIGH-PAYING REMOTE JOB
Scammers also try to take advantage of people looking for remote work.
They advertise fake high-paying jobs or scam victims into illegal activities like money laundering.
“When looking for a job, use trusted job websites and the official career pages of established companies. This eliminates the possibility of any interaction with a scammer,” Alain recommends.
FREE CREDIT REPORT
Searching for a free credit report is also something the expert wants Google users to be wary of.
Scammers set up fraudulent websites credit report websites in the hope of stealing vital information like your Social Security Number.
In a worst-case scenario, this can lead to identity theft.
TECH SUPPORT
Instead of using Google Search to find a brand’s tech support, try heading to its official website first.
Then, find the genuine tech support contact details from the site that you trust.
Cybercriminals have been known to make fake tech support pages in the hope you’ll readily give away private details and money.
Alain advises using official tech support from your device’s manufacturer or the software provider in question.
