Zach Sadkin
Can I really get viruses from social media?
Getting computer viruses from social media happens when bad actors use malicious links, fake messages, and compromised/hacked accounts to trick you into downloading harmful software. Cybercriminals hide malware (viruses) behind catchy posts, direct messages from friends, or fake buttons.
How Malware Spreads on Social Media
* Fake Links: Posts or direct messages featuring clickbait or alarming news that lead to dangerous websites.
* Hacked Friends: Messages sent from someone you know whose account was already taken over by a hacker.
* Bad Apps: Unsafe third-party games or quizzes that ask for account access and steal data.
How to Protect Your Devices
* Do Not Click: Avoid clicking strange links or downloading files sent through social platforms, even from people you know.
* Use Security Tools: Keep your phone and computer updated, and install trusted antivirus software. Call us for a security health check/tune-up of your PC if you have questions or it has been over a year since you have had your computer checked or cleaned up.
* Secure Accounts: Turn on two-step verification, Consider setting up a PassKey, and use strong, unique passwords for every site.
How to Spot and Avoid Internet Shopping Scams
Spotting and avoiding internet shopping scams requires looking out for fake websites, unbelievable prices, emails with offers almost too good to be true, and weird or strange payment demands. Key warning signs include deals that are too good to be true, misspelled web addresses, and requests for untraceable payment methods such as gift cards.
Red Flags to Spot Scams
* Crazy Discounts: Prices that are way lower than anywhere else usually mean a fake product or a copycat shop.
* Weird Web Links: Check the address bar for extra random letters, odd spelling, or missing security locks (HTTPS).
* Shady Payments: Scammers ask to get paid using gift cards, money wires, cryptocurrency, or direct peer-to-peer transfer apps.
* Social Media Ads: Pop-up ads or links inside unexpected emails and text messages often lead to fake storefronts.
* If it looks too good to be true it is: A customer of ours thought they were getting a Balsam Hill tree through a clearance site. Turned out to be a scam and they received a cheap tree necklace for $49.95. They bait you with the real items and offer a ridiculously low price.
Best Ways to Stay Safe
* Go Direct: Type the trusted store name directly into your web browser instead of clicking links from ads or messages.
* Use Credit Cards: Pay with a credit card because it gives you strong fraud protection and easy dispute options if something goes wrong.
* Research the Seller: Search the name of the online store or seller combined with the word “scam” before you buy.
Please feel free to call or text us at 480-662-8589 with any questions or to schedule an appointment. Sun Lakes Computer Services, Microsoft Certified Professional. Providing in–home services since 2007, based in Sun Lakes Oakwood, www.SunLakesComputerServices.com. (See ad in classifieds.)