From the developers of Avast internet security software:
A scam is a fraudulent attempt to obtain something of value from you, typically money but not always.
Back in the analog era, scams were conducted in-person. Scammers, often working in pairs or teams, would carry out scams on the street or in busy public places such as restaurants and pubs.
As technology advanced, so did scamming techniques. Train travel, postal systems and telephones all granted scammers access to larger pools of marks, as did the widespread emergence of a middle class in the 20th century. More people had more money to steal, and it was easier for scammers to contact them.
The increased connectivity of the internet has enabled scammers to reach more potential marks than ever before. Scammers were quick to develop new scams while updating traditional approaches.
In this article, Avast breaks down the most common types of online scams while giving you the tools and know-how you need to detect and fight against scammers.
The full story is available at Avast.com.
