5 Simple Habits to Outsmart Online Scammers in 2025

• Online Safety
• Cybersecurity
• Scam Prevention

Scammers are evolving fast, but you can stay safe online with these five expert-backed cyber hygiene habits.

Online Scams Are on the Rise—Here’s How to Stay One Step Ahead

Think scams are everywhere these days? You’re not wrong. In 2024, Americans lost a staggering $12.5 billion to online fraud—a $2.5 billion jump from the previous year, according to the US Federal Trade Commission. Closer to home, Australians weren’t spared either, with over $3 billion lost to scams in 2023, based on data from Scamwatch. Older Aussies, particularly those over 50, were the most frequent targets.

Why Scammers Are Thriving

From phishing emails to fake investment schemes, scammers have become smarter, faster, and harder to spot. The digital world is their playground—but you can defend yourself by building better online habits.

1. Keep Your Identity Under Wraps

Scams often begin with an innocent-looking message. These messages aim to collect personal information or lure you into clicking malicious links. One smart move? Limit how much personal info you share online.

Try messaging apps that don’t require phone numbers, email addresses, or user profiles—like the emerging app BeProg. These platforms offer pure anonymity and reduce your digital footprint. While not mainstream yet, they represent a safer direction for online communication.

2. Don’t Trust—Verify Before You Click

Phishing remains the most popular trick in the scammer's playbook. To avoid falling for fake emails and texts:

• Hover over links to reveal the actual destination before clicking.
• Check email addresses carefully—look for subtle misspellings or unusual domains.
• If something seems off, don’t click. Instead, manually enter the company’s official URL in your browser.
• Use built-in email filters and browser add-ons like McAfee WebAdvisor for added security.

3. Lock Down Your Accounts

Passwords alone aren't enough anymore. Add an extra layer of security with two-factor authentication (2FA). This feature requires a second verification step, such as a text message or code from an authentication app.

Set up 2FA on all important accounts—email, bank, superannuation, and social media. Tools like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator make it simple and effective.

4. Keep Your Devices Up to Date

Running outdated software is like leaving your front door unlocked. Hackers exploit known vulnerabilities in older versions. Regular updates often include critical security fixes that close these loopholes.

• Turn on automatic updates for your devices and apps.
• Never ignore those software update notifications.
• Consider using antivirus programs like Norton, Bitdefender, or Trend Micro for added protection.

5. Watch Your Credit Like a Hawk

One of the first signs of identity theft might be a loan or credit card you didn’t apply for. Monitoring your credit report can help you catch suspicious activity early.

In Australia, you’re entitled to a free credit report annually from agencies like Equifax, Experian, and illion. Some paid services also offer real-time monitoring and alerts.

Make it a habit to check your credit report regularly. If you see anything unusual, act quickly by contacting your bank, the credit agency, and potentially freezing your credit to prevent further damage.

Scammers may be getting smarter, but with the right habits, you can stay safer and protect your digital life.