The World Cup brings together hundreds of millions of football fans from all over the world. Cybercriminals see the interest in such big events as an opportunity for fraud.
Cyber security company ESET examined the world cup themed fraud methods and made suggestions to prevent harm to internet users. WhatsApp messages redirecting you to unauthorized websites, fake sweepstakes, fake social media accounts or malicious advertisements are among the methods that can take you by surprise. Beware of suspicious ads and messages.
Lottery scams
With this tried-and-tested scam, scammers make their victims believe that they have won a cash prize, ticket or accommodation package so they can watch the matches from their place. Their main purpose is to allow you to share your personal data or download malicious software that unwittingly accesses information on your device.
Fake websites
A convincing type of phishing scam if you don't pay attention to details are unauthorized websites that appear to be real. Links to these websites are distributed via spam emails, fake social media accounts or discussion forums. These sites are used as a tool to steal personal and financial data, login and other sensitive information, or to install malware on victims' devices.
ticket scams
To date, many people have complained that “FIFA officials” who offered them tickets for sale contacted them via email. If you want to buy tickets to watch the matches from their place, you have to watch out for the scammers. It is worth noting that only digital tickets are sold for Qatar 2022. The only exception to this is last-minute tickets, which can only be purchased by oneself from two ticket offices in Doha, Qatar.
Other fraud methods
A cryptocurrency called FIFA Inu was released recently, and accusations that it could be a cryptocurrency scam soon emerged due to the sudden drop after a steady rise. But its founders say these accusations are unfounded.
Whether it's World Cup themed or not, the way to stay safe from scammers is a few simple rules:
- You can't win a raffle if you haven't bought a ticket. If someone claims otherwise, it's a scam.
- Don't pay someone to get a reward. Prepayment schemes are a game to steal your money.
- Beware of phishing attacks. If you are unsure of the legitimacy of the emails, even if they are spam and request your personal data, do not click on links or attachments in these emails or messages.
- Be mindful of the websites you visit. If a website is asking you for money or personal information, always keep an eye out for grammatical and spelling mistakes, strange URL addresses, missing security certificates, or other signs that something is wrong.
- Do not give your personal information to anyone who asks. Your personal information can be used for fraud immediately or later sold on the dark web.
- Use two-factor authentication on all your accounts, especially those that contain sensitive information. This makes it less likely for hackers to crack open your accounts with stolen/phishing passwords.
- Use reputable, multi-layered security software with anti-phishing features.
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