The online world is a beautiful place - so beautiful that anything is possible.

However, there are a ton of persons who are desperate to scam users of the internet at the slightest chance.

While the bad boy cannot be stopped completely, they can be avoided to a large extent - if some measures are put in place:

1. Always check the man/woman/company behind the offer

Experience has shown that men and companies are more sensible when they have something to lose...in this wise, always take a look at the entity behind any offer and ascertain what it/they have to lose. If they don't have anything to lose, proceed at your own risk!

2. If an offer is too good to be true, then, it is!

If you're offered an eBook that promises to teach you the basics of blogging and ensure that you make 10k USD in a month blogging, then, that offer is a scam; same with an offer that promises you a brand new Benz for 950k NGN. Or a brand new HP laptop for only $56.

Often, your guts are right...trust them!

3. Be careful when haste is introduced...

Genuine businessmen/women know that the decision making process can be a long and tiring one...accordingly, they are not overly hasty with their clients and would be customer...

The scammer on the other hand, wants you to pay - and pay immediately. Delaying that payment (to watch reactions) may thus be a lifesaver and the smartest thing to do.

4. Be careful when there are unverifiable testimonials

This is common today - as common as pure water!

Why would any sane person publish a testimonial without the contact details of the person who has offered the testimony? Accordingly, such testimonies that end with: 'Nancy, Abuja' or 'Esther, Benin City' should be treated with caution.

On the other hand, a testimony that reads: 'Seun, Nairaland.com' is much more authentic and veritable.

Be wise. Avoid scammers!

Source: http://notopoverty.info/how-to-protect-yourself-from-scams-online/