For example, I once clicked on a link that promised free concert tickets. Immediately, my banking app alerted me of suspicious activity, and I froze. I didn’t lose any money only because my bank was able to stop the transaction. At that moment, I felt embarrassed, but in retrospect, I realized that this mistake was a learning experience. I learned to watch for red flags: unexpected urgency, appeals to emotion, and requests for personal data.
Mistakes are simply experience turned into wisdom. Every time I make a mistake or almost get caught up in something, I take the time to write it down and think about it. It’s a sort of personal security journal, and over time, it becomes an armor of practical knowledge.
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Open Minds, Sharp Eyes
One thing I have learned is that minds that are closed are easy targets for scammers. Minds that believe what they hear without questioning it, whether it is in emails, on social media, or even from friends, are easy targets for scammers. I believe in approaching everything with an open mind and asking myself questions such as:
“Does this add up?”
“Have I seen this information contradicted elsewhere?”
“What is this person’s motive for sending this information?”
An open mind is not the same as being gullible. Having an open mind is being inquisitive and discerning. If I am unsure about something or something doesn’t add up, I take the time to look into it further. Einstein’s theory of independent thinking is helpful in this situation because I am to question what I am told, even by “trusted” sources.
Contribution Over Status
I have also learned that those people who’ll do anything to attain their status, likes, and followers, are easier to be scammed. This is because scammers know how to take advantage of our need to be successful or powerful. They offer us shortcuts, exclusive deals, and membership in elite groups.
Instead of chasing status, I try helping others and make contributions. This isn’t only good for your character, but also for your security. When your focus is not on how you are seen, you are less likely to be swayed by empty promises.
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Spotting Inconsistencies
Another favorite tool of mine is looking for inconsistencies. I’ve found that most scams are not very good at this because they often change stories or contradict themselves in some way. They also often create a sense of urgency that just isn’t there in real life. So, when I see this kind of thing happen, I take a moment to look deeper.
For instance, I was offered an investment that guaranteed me my return in just one week. It was almost too good an offer to be true. By asking questions and verifying their credentials, I was quickly able to see that they weren’t even registered with the SEC.
Simplicity Supports Happiness
Interestingly, the simpler and more grounded I stay, the better it is for my piece of mind and my pocket. The more I yearn about something complicated and luxurious, or a “life hack” that seems too good to be true, the more I become a victim of scams.
On the other hand, I emphasize the importance of the basics in life: nurturing good relationships, learning new things, and living a simple life. Happiness does not lie in having everything; it lies in needing less, enjoying more, and not being fooled by scams that promise the opposite.
