#onlinesafety — Public Fediverse posts

“Britain’s Free Speech Problem”

by Big Brother Watch

@uk_politics
@UKLabour
@[email protected]
@[email protected]
@freespeechabsolutist
@BBC5Live
@BBCRadio4
@BBCNews
@guardian
@Independent
@thetimes

“Our groundbreaking new report, 'Britain's free speech problem: How growing restrictions are stifling speech online and offline’ reveals the bleak state of free speech in Britain today. It investigates how a patchwork of poor legislation, a ‘postcode lottery’ of policing, and a relentless stream of new restrictions are slowly limiting Britons’ free speech”

Download the report for free or read the key findings from here:

https://bigbrotherwatch.org.uk/campaigns/save-free-speech/

#Press #SocialMedia #Journalism #UK #Britain #FreeSpeech #Authoritarianism #Dictatorship #PoliceState #Terrorism #TerrorismAct #OnlineSafety #PoliticalPolicing #Israel #ZionistLobbby #PalestinianGenocide #Censorship #CancelCulture

“Britain’s Free Speech Problem”

by Big Brother Watch

@uk_politics
@UKLabour
@[email protected]
@[email protected]
@freespeechabsolutist
@BBC5Live
@BBCRadio4
@BBCNews
@guardian
@Independent
@thetimes

“Our groundbreaking new report, 'Britain's free speech problem: How growing restrictions are stifling speech online and offline’ reveals the bleak state of free speech in Britain today. It investigates how a patchwork of poor legislation, a ‘postcode lottery’ of policing, and a relentless stream of new restrictions are slowly limiting Britons’ free speech”

Download the report for free or read the key findings from here:

https://bigbrotherwatch.org.uk/campaigns/save-free-speech/

#Press #SocialMedia #Journalism #UK #Britain #FreeSpeech #Authoritarianism #Dictatorship #PoliceState #Terrorism #TerrorismAct #OnlineSafety #PoliticalPolicing #Israel #ZionistLobbby #PalestinianGenocide #Censorship #CancelCulture

“Britain’s Free Speech Problem”

by Big Brother Watch

@uk_politics
@UKLabour
@[email protected]
@[email protected]
@freespeechabsolutist
@BBC5Live
@BBCRadio4
@BBCNews
@guardian
@Independent
@thetimes

“Our groundbreaking new report, 'Britain's free speech problem: How growing restrictions are stifling speech online and offline’ reveals the bleak state of free speech in Britain today. It investigates how a patchwork of poor legislation, a ‘postcode lottery’ of policing, and a relentless stream of new restrictions are slowly limiting Britons’ free speech”

Download the report for free or read the key findings from here:

https://bigbrotherwatch.org.uk/campaigns/save-free-speech/

#Press #SocialMedia #Journalism #UK #Britain #FreeSpeech #Authoritarianism #Dictatorship #PoliceState #Terrorism #TerrorismAct #OnlineSafety #PoliticalPolicing #Israel #ZionistLobbby #PalestinianGenocide #Censorship #CancelCulture

“Britain’s Free Speech Problem”

by Big Brother Watch

@uk_politics
@UKLabour
@[email protected]
@[email protected]
@freespeechabsolutist
@BBC5Live
@BBCRadio4
@BBCNews
@guardian
@Independent
@thetimes

“Our groundbreaking new report, 'Britain's free speech problem: How growing restrictions are stifling speech online and offline’ reveals the bleak state of free speech in Britain today. It investigates how a patchwork of poor legislation, a ‘postcode lottery’ of policing, and a relentless stream of new restrictions are slowly limiting Britons’ free speech”

Download the report for free or read the key findings from here:

https://bigbrotherwatch.org.uk/campaigns/save-free-speech/

#Press #SocialMedia #Journalism #UK #Britain #FreeSpeech #Authoritarianism #Dictatorship #PoliceState #Terrorism #TerrorismAct #OnlineSafety #PoliticalPolicing #Israel #ZionistLobbby #PalestinianGenocide #Censorship #CancelCulture

“Britain’s Free Speech Problem”

by Big Brother Watch

@uk_politics
@UKLabour
@[email protected]
@[email protected]
@freespeechabsolutist
@BBC5Live
@BBCRadio4
@BBCNews
@guardian
@Independent
@thetimes

“Our groundbreaking new report, 'Britain's free speech problem: How growing restrictions are stifling speech online and offline’ reveals the bleak state of free speech in Britain today. It investigates how a patchwork of poor legislation, a ‘postcode lottery’ of policing, and a relentless stream of new restrictions are slowly limiting Britons’ free speech”

Download the report for free or read the key findings from here:

https://bigbrotherwatch.org.uk/campaigns/save-free-speech/

#Press #SocialMedia #Journalism #UK #Britain #FreeSpeech #Authoritarianism #Dictatorship #PoliceState #Terrorism #TerrorismAct #OnlineSafety #PoliticalPolicing #Israel #ZionistLobbby #PalestinianGenocide #Censorship #CancelCulture

Data breaches happen every day. Are you sure you haven't been caught in one? Get free, instant breach alerts with Cyzo and take back control of your digital privacy.

#CyzoSecurity #Privacy #BreachMonitoring #TechTips #SecureYourData #OnlineSafety

Data breaches happen every day. Are you sure you haven't been caught in one? Get free, instant breach alerts with Cyzo and take back control of your digital privacy.

#CyzoSecurity #Privacy #BreachMonitoring #TechTips #SecureYourData #OnlineSafety

Data breaches happen every day. Are you sure you haven't been caught in one? Get free, instant breach alerts with Cyzo and take back control of your digital privacy.

#CyzoSecurity #Privacy #BreachMonitoring #TechTips #SecureYourData #OnlineSafety

Data breaches happen every day. Are you sure you haven't been caught in one? Get free, instant breach alerts with Cyzo and take back control of your digital privacy.

#CyzoSecurity #Privacy #BreachMonitoring #TechTips #SecureYourData #OnlineSafety

Data breaches happen every day. Are you sure you haven't been caught in one? Get free, instant breach alerts with Cyzo and take back control of your digital privacy.

#CyzoSecurity #Privacy #BreachMonitoring #TechTips #SecureYourData #OnlineSafety

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHZTeEN2HT0

What does online age verification laws actually have to do with the ENABLING of collecting data from children, China's surveillance and censorship laws, and the profits of companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google? A lot more than you think.

In this episode of Plain Meaning, I break down the real agenda behind the push for operating system age verification. From California's Digital Age Assurance Act to federal proposals in Congress, they have come from the same source. I trace who benefits, what laws get quietly gutted in the process, and why the timing lines up suspiciously with China's own digital surveillance rollout.

What you'll learn:
— Why Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Meta all win if these laws pass
— How age verification effectively nullifies existing laws that protect you and your children like COPPA and the Privacy Act of 1974
— What already happened in the UK under the Online Safety Act — and why it matters for America
— The striking parallels between Apple's product rollouts and China's surveillance
— Why this isn't about protecting kids at all but more about removing the remaining barriers SO THEY CAN TRACK THEM

This is Part 1 of the Plain Meaning 12-part Plain Meaning Special Report. Links to all episodes will appear as they're released.

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws
The rest are coming soon...

California's law takes effect January 2027. There is still time — but not much.

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety #COPPA #BigTech #ChildOnlineSafety #Surveillance #Apple #Google #Meta #Facebook #DigitalID #PlainMeaning #PrivacyRights #ChinaTech #InternetFreedom #DataPrivacy #OperatingSystem #TechPolicy #ParentsRights #China #PrivacyAct

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety

#AgeVerification #NationalID #Surveillance #Censorship #PlainMeaning

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHZTeEN2HT0

What does online age verification laws actually have to do with the ENABLING of collecting data from children, China's surveillance and censorship laws, and the profits of companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google? A lot more than you think.

In this episode of Plain Meaning, I break down the real agenda behind the push for operating system age verification. From California's Digital Age Assurance Act to federal proposals in Congress, they have come from the same source. I trace who benefits, what laws get quietly gutted in the process, and why the timing lines up suspiciously with China's own digital surveillance rollout.

What you'll learn:
— Why Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Meta all win if these laws pass
— How age verification effectively nullifies existing laws that protect you and your children like COPPA and the Privacy Act of 1974
— What already happened in the UK under the Online Safety Act — and why it matters for America
— The striking parallels between Apple's product rollouts and China's surveillance
— Why this isn't about protecting kids at all but more about removing the remaining barriers SO THEY CAN TRACK THEM

This is Part 1 of the Plain Meaning 12-part Plain Meaning Special Report. Links to all episodes will appear as they're released.

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws
The rest are coming soon...

California's law takes effect January 2027. There is still time — but not much.

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety #COPPA #BigTech #ChildOnlineSafety #Surveillance #Apple #Google #Meta #Facebook #DigitalID #PlainMeaning #PrivacyRights #ChinaTech #InternetFreedom #DataPrivacy #OperatingSystem #TechPolicy #ParentsRights #China #PrivacyAct

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety

#AgeVerification #NationalID #Surveillance #Censorship #PlainMeaning

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHZTeEN2HT0

What does online age verification laws actually have to do with the ENABLING of collecting data from children, China's surveillance and censorship laws, and the profits of companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google? A lot more than you think.

In this episode of Plain Meaning, I break down the real agenda behind the push for operating system age verification. From California's Digital Age Assurance Act to federal proposals in Congress, they have come from the same source. I trace who benefits, what laws get quietly gutted in the process, and why the timing lines up suspiciously with China's own digital surveillance rollout.

What you'll learn:
— Why Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Meta all win if these laws pass
— How age verification effectively nullifies existing laws that protect you and your children like COPPA and the Privacy Act of 1974
— What already happened in the UK under the Online Safety Act — and why it matters for America
— The striking parallels between Apple's product rollouts and China's surveillance
— Why this isn't about protecting kids at all but more about removing the remaining barriers SO THEY CAN TRACK THEM

This is Part 1 of the Plain Meaning 12-part Plain Meaning Special Report. Links to all episodes will appear as they're released.

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws
The rest are coming soon...

California's law takes effect January 2027. There is still time — but not much.

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety #COPPA #BigTech #ChildOnlineSafety #Surveillance #Apple #Google #Meta #Facebook #DigitalID #PlainMeaning #PrivacyRights #ChinaTech #InternetFreedom #DataPrivacy #OperatingSystem #TechPolicy #ParentsRights #China #PrivacyAct

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety

#AgeVerification #NationalID #Surveillance #Censorship #PlainMeaning

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHZTeEN2HT0

What does online age verification laws actually have to do with the ENABLING of collecting data from children, China's surveillance and censorship laws, and the profits of companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google? A lot more than you think.

In this episode of Plain Meaning, I break down the real agenda behind the push for operating system age verification. From California's Digital Age Assurance Act to federal proposals in Congress, they have come from the same source. I trace who benefits, what laws get quietly gutted in the process, and why the timing lines up suspiciously with China's own digital surveillance rollout.

What you'll learn:
— Why Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Meta all win if these laws pass
— How age verification effectively nullifies existing laws that protect you and your children like COPPA and the Privacy Act of 1974
— What already happened in the UK under the Online Safety Act — and why it matters for America
— The striking parallels between Apple's product rollouts and China's surveillance
— Why this isn't about protecting kids at all but more about removing the remaining barriers SO THEY CAN TRACK THEM

This is Part 1 of the Plain Meaning 12-part Plain Meaning Special Report. Links to all episodes will appear as they're released.

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws
The rest are coming soon...

California's law takes effect January 2027. There is still time — but not much.

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety #COPPA #BigTech #ChildOnlineSafety #Surveillance #Apple #Google #Meta #Facebook #DigitalID #PlainMeaning #PrivacyRights #ChinaTech #InternetFreedom #DataPrivacy #OperatingSystem #TechPolicy #ParentsRights #China #PrivacyAct

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety

#AgeVerification #NationalID #Surveillance #Censorship #PlainMeaning

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHZTeEN2HT0

What does online age verification laws actually have to do with the ENABLING of collecting data from children, China's surveillance and censorship laws, and the profits of companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google? A lot more than you think.

In this episode of Plain Meaning, I break down the real agenda behind the push for operating system age verification. From California's Digital Age Assurance Act to federal proposals in Congress, they have come from the same source. I trace who benefits, what laws get quietly gutted in the process, and why the timing lines up suspiciously with China's own digital surveillance rollout.

What you'll learn:
— Why Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Meta all win if these laws pass
— How age verification effectively nullifies existing laws that protect you and your children like COPPA and the Privacy Act of 1974
— What already happened in the UK under the Online Safety Act — and why it matters for America
— The striking parallels between Apple's product rollouts and China's surveillance
— Why this isn't about protecting kids at all but more about removing the remaining barriers SO THEY CAN TRACK THEM

This is Part 1 of the Plain Meaning 12-part Plain Meaning Special Report. Links to all episodes will appear as they're released.

The Real Reason Behind Online Age Verification Laws
The rest are coming soon...

California's law takes effect January 2027. There is still time — but not much.

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety #COPPA #BigTech #ChildOnlineSafety #Surveillance #Apple #Google #Meta #Facebook #DigitalID #PlainMeaning #PrivacyRights #ChinaTech #InternetFreedom #DataPrivacy #OperatingSystem #TechPolicy #ParentsRights #China #PrivacyAct

#AgeVerification #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety

#AgeVerification #NationalID #Surveillance #Censorship #PlainMeaning

Jessamine County Schools alerts parents of ‘Cat in the Hat’ trend

JESSAMINE CO, Ky. (WKYT) – Jessamine County Schools are alerting parents to an online trend circulating on social…
#NewsBeep #News #Headlines #CatintheHat #JessamineCountySchools #Onlinesafety #threat #trend #UnitedStates #Us #USA
https://www.newsbeep.com/721592/

Proposed laws would let you opt out of social media algorithms. An expert explains
#SocialMedia #Algorithms #Tech #Privacy #Australia #Politics #Children #DigitalRights #ESafety #TechRegulation #OnlineSafety
#SocialMediaRegulation #Ban
https://the-14.com/proposed-laws-would-let-you-opt-out-of-social-media-algorithms-an-expert-explains/

Proposed laws would let you opt out of social media algorithms. An expert explains
#SocialMedia #Algorithms #Tech #Privacy #Australia #Politics #Children #DigitalRights #ESafety #TechRegulation #OnlineSafety
#SocialMediaRegulation #Ban
https://the-14.com/proposed-laws-would-let-you-opt-out-of-social-media-algorithms-an-expert-explains/

Proposed laws would let you opt out of social media algorithms. An expert explains
#SocialMedia #Algorithms #Tech #Privacy #Australia #Politics #Children #DigitalRights #ESafety #TechRegulation #OnlineSafety
#SocialMediaRegulation #Ban
https://the-14.com/proposed-laws-would-let-you-opt-out-of-social-media-algorithms-an-expert-explains/

Proposed laws would let you opt out of social media algorithms. An expert explains
#SocialMedia #Algorithms #Tech #Privacy #Australia #Politics #Children #DigitalRights #ESafety #TechRegulation #OnlineSafety
#SocialMediaRegulation #Ban
https://the-14.com/proposed-laws-would-let-you-opt-out-of-social-media-algorithms-an-expert-explains/

Proposed laws would let you opt out of social media algorithms. An expert explains
#SocialMedia #Algorithms #Tech #Privacy #Australia #Politics #Children #DigitalRights #ESafety #TechRegulation #OnlineSafety
#SocialMediaRegulation #Ban
https://the-14.com/proposed-laws-would-let-you-opt-out-of-social-media-algorithms-an-expert-explains/

FYI: GTA 6 scam domains triple to 750 by launch, Surfshark projects: One in four of the 212 domains uncovered so far are built to defraud fans, Surfshark says, with most sitting dormant, waiting for a search surge near release. https://ppc.land/gta-6-scam-domains-triple-to-750-by-launch-surfshark-projects/ #GTA6 #GamingNews #ScamAlert #CyberSecurity #OnlineSafety

FYI: GTA 6 scam domains triple to 750 by launch, Surfshark projects: One in four of the 212 domains uncovered so far are built to defraud fans, Surfshark says, with most sitting dormant, waiting for a search surge near release. https://ppc.land/gta-6-scam-domains-triple-to-750-by-launch-surfshark-projects/ #GTA6 #GamingNews #ScamAlert #CyberSecurity #OnlineSafety

FYI: GTA 6 scam domains triple to 750 by launch, Surfshark projects: One in four of the 212 domains uncovered so far are built to defraud fans, Surfshark says, with most sitting dormant, waiting for a search surge near release. https://ppc.land/gta-6-scam-domains-triple-to-750-by-launch-surfshark-projects/ #GTA6 #GamingNews #ScamAlert #CyberSecurity #OnlineSafety

https://www.europesays.com/ie/675051/ Apply Now: $5 Million to Test If AI Chatbots Fail Users in Crisis #Éire #GenerativeAI #IE #Ireland #MentalHealth #OnlineSafety #Technology #WorldHealthOrganization

Retail Gazette: Lush launches campaign highlighting harm caused by social media. “Lush is looking to spotlight the harm caused by big social media platforms in its new campaign, which is now live across all of its stores in the UK, EU, USA and Canada. The retailer left the major social media platforms, Snapchat, X, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook almost five years ago. And since then, the […]

Retail Gazette: Lush launches campaign highlighting harm caused by social media. “Lush is looking to spotlight the harm caused by big social media platforms in its new campaign, which is now live across all of its stores in the UK, EU, USA and Canada. The retailer left the major social media platforms, Snapchat, X, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook almost five years ago. And since then, the […]

Retail Gazette: Lush launches campaign highlighting harm caused by social media. “Lush is looking to spotlight the harm caused by big social media platforms in its new campaign, which is now live across all of its stores in the UK, EU, USA and Canada. The retailer left the major social media platforms, Snapchat, X, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook almost five years ago. And since then, the […]

Retail Gazette: Lush launches campaign highlighting harm caused by social media. “Lush is looking to spotlight the harm caused by big social media platforms in its new campaign, which is now live across all of its stores in the UK, EU, USA and Canada. The retailer left the major social media platforms, Snapchat, X, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook almost five years ago. And since then, the […]

Retail Gazette: Lush launches campaign highlighting harm caused by social media. “Lush is looking to spotlight the harm caused by big social media platforms in its new campaign, which is now live across all of its stores in the UK, EU, USA and Canada. The retailer left the major social media platforms, Snapchat, X, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook almost five years ago. And since then, the […]

Reuters: UNICEF estimates 20 million children suffered online sexual abuse in one year. “About 20 million internet-using children across ​21 countries were subjected to sexual exploitation or abuse on digital platforms in a single year, with most cases occurring ‌on social media platforms, a new report by the U.N. children’s charity said on Thursday. More than one in five children aged 12 […]

Reuters: UNICEF estimates 20 million children suffered online sexual abuse in one year. “About 20 million internet-using children across ​21 countries were subjected to sexual exploitation or abuse on digital platforms in a single year, with most cases occurring ‌on social media platforms, a new report by the U.N. children’s charity said on Thursday. More than one in five children aged 12 […]

Reuters: UNICEF estimates 20 million children suffered online sexual abuse in one year. “About 20 million internet-using children across ​21 countries were subjected to sexual exploitation or abuse on digital platforms in a single year, with most cases occurring ‌on social media platforms, a new report by the U.N. children’s charity said on Thursday. More than one in five children aged 12 […]

Reuters: UNICEF estimates 20 million children suffered online sexual abuse in one year. “About 20 million internet-using children across ​21 countries were subjected to sexual exploitation or abuse on digital platforms in a single year, with most cases occurring ‌on social media platforms, a new report by the U.N. children’s charity said on Thursday. More than one in five children aged 12 […]

Reuters: UNICEF estimates 20 million children suffered online sexual abuse in one year. “About 20 million internet-using children across ​21 countries were subjected to sexual exploitation or abuse on digital platforms in a single year, with most cases occurring ‌on social media platforms, a new report by the U.N. children’s charity said on Thursday. More than one in five children aged 12 […]

Duh.

The Register: UK's Online Safety Act has made 'absolutely no difference,' kids say
https://www.theregister.com/security/2026/09/03/uks-online-safety-act-has-made-absolutely-no-difference-kids-say/5293893

#OnlineSafetyAct #OnlineSafety #TheRegister

Duh.

The Register: UK's Online Safety Act has made 'absolutely no difference,' kids say
https://www.theregister.com/security/2026/09/03/uks-online-safety-act-has-made-absolutely-no-difference-kids-say/5293893

#OnlineSafetyAct #OnlineSafety #TheRegister

Duh.

The Register: UK's Online Safety Act has made 'absolutely no difference,' kids say
https://www.theregister.com/security/2026/09/03/uks-online-safety-act-has-made-absolutely-no-difference-kids-say/5293893

#OnlineSafetyAct #OnlineSafety #TheRegister

Duh.

The Register: UK's Online Safety Act has made 'absolutely no difference,' kids say
https://www.theregister.com/security/2026/09/03/uks-online-safety-act-has-made-absolutely-no-difference-kids-say/5293893

#OnlineSafetyAct #OnlineSafety #TheRegister

The DoRaleigh Scam Report Popular Scams and How to Avoid Them

Scammers are becoming more convincing, using artificial intelligence, caller ID spoofing, social media, text messages, fake websites, and emotional pressure to steal money and personal information.

In 2025, consumers submitted approximately 3 million fraud reports and reported losing $15.9 billion, according to the Federal Trade Commission⁠. Imposter scams alone accounted for $3.5 billion in reported losses.

Raleigh and Triangle residents can reduce their risk by learning the warning signs of today’s most common scams.

1. Government and Business Imposter Scams

A caller, email, or text may claim to come from the IRS, Social Security Administration, Federal Trade Commission, police department, bank, utility company, or another trusted organization.

Scammers often say that your account has been compromised, you owe money, or you face arrest unless you act immediately. They may even manipulate caller ID or send official-looking documents.

How to avoid imposter scams

• Do not trust caller ID alone.
• Hang up and contact the organization using its official website or published phone number.
• Never move money to “protect” it.
• Government agencies will not demand payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, gold, or cash delivered to a courier.
• Do not provide account passwords, PINs, verification codes, or Social Security numbers after an unexpected contact.

The FTC advises consumers never to transfer money, cryptocurrency, or gold after an unsolicited call or message. Anyone directing you to move money for its protection is attempting a scam. Read more from the FTC’s imposter scam guide⁠.

2. Phishing Emails and Text-Message Scams

Phishing messages imitate banks, delivery companies, toll agencies, streaming services, employers, and government offices. Common messages claim that a package is delayed, a toll remains unpaid, an account will be closed, or suspicious activity requires immediate attention.

The included link may lead to a fake website designed to steal login credentials, banking information, or credit-card numbers. The FBI explains that these sites can closely resemble legitimate financial or commercial websites. Learn about phishing and spoofing from the FBI⁠.

How to avoid phishing scams

• Do not click links in unexpected emails or text messages.
• Open the company’s official app or type its website address directly into your browser.
• Inspect email addresses carefully for misspellings or unusual domains.
• Never share a login verification code with someone who contacts you.
• Delete messages that demand immediate payment or personal information.

3. Investment and Cryptocurrency Scams

Investment scammers promise guaranteed returns, exclusive opportunities, or profits with little or no risk. Some build relationships through social media or dating apps before recommending a fraudulent cryptocurrency platform.

A fake account dashboard may appear to show growing profits, but victims are later told to pay additional fees or taxes before withdrawing their money.

How to avoid investment scams

• Be skeptical of guaranteed or unusually high returns.
• Research the investment professional and company independently.
• Do not invest based solely on advice from someone you met online.
• Never send cryptocurrency to “unlock” earnings or protect an account.
• Avoid opportunities that pressure you to act before conducting research.

The FBI warns that no legitimate investment can guarantee a return. Review the FBI’s investment fraud guidance⁠.

4. Romance Scams

Romance scammers create fake profiles on dating apps and social media, quickly building trust and emotional connections. They frequently avoid meeting in person while claiming to work overseas, serve in the military, travel extensively, or face a personal emergency.

Eventually, the scammer requests money for travel, medical care, legal problems, business expenses, or an investment.

How to avoid romance scams

• Be cautious when an online relationship develops unusually quickly.
• Conduct a reverse-image search on profile photographs.
• Discuss the relationship with a trusted friend or family member.
• Never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or banking information to someone you have not met.
• Stop communicating when someone repeatedly avoids video calls or in-person meetings.

The FBI’s romance scam guidance⁠ explains how criminals use fake identities and emotional manipulation to gain trust before asking for money.

5. Job and “Task” Scams

Job scammers pose as recruiters offering remote positions with high salaries, flexible schedules, and little experience required. They may conduct interviews through text messages, send fake checks for equipment, or require applicants to pay for training.

Task scams promise commissions for completing simple online activities. Victims may initially receive a small payment before being required to deposit larger amounts or purchase cryptocurrency.

How to avoid job scams

• Verify openings on the employer’s official careers page.
• Research the recruiter’s name, email address, and company.
• Be suspicious of interviews conducted entirely through messaging apps.
• Never pay for a job or send money to begin working.
• Do not deposit a check and forward part of the money to another person.
• Never use your personal bank account to transfer money for an employer.

6. Tech-Support Scams

A pop-up, phone call, or email may claim that your computer has a virus or your account has been hacked. The scammer may request remote access to your device, install unwanted software, or demand payment for unnecessary repairs.

How to avoid tech-support scams

• Do not call numbers displayed in unexpected security pop-ups.
• Never give remote access to someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
• Contact the device manufacturer or software provider directly.
• Close the browser or restart the device if a suspicious pop-up will not disappear.
• Never pay for technical support with gift cards, cryptocurrency, or a wire transfer.

The FTC’s tech-support scam guide⁠ notes that scammers prefer payment methods that are difficult to reverse.

7. Online Shopping, Marketplace and Rental Scams

Scammers advertise nonexistent products, pets, concert tickets, vehicles, apartments, and vacation rentals. Prices are often significantly lower than comparable listings, and the seller may demand a deposit before allowing an inspection.

How to avoid marketplace and rental scams

• Search the seller’s name, phone number, and listing photographs.
• Compare the price with similar listings.
• Inspect property or merchandise before paying whenever possible.
• Use the platform’s approved payment system and buyer protections.
• Avoid sellers demanding gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or payment outside the platform.
• Never pay a rental deposit before verifying the property and owner.

8. Family Emergency and Grandparent Scams

A caller may pretend to be a child, grandchild, lawyer, police officer, or hospital employee. Some scammers use artificial intelligence to imitate a loved one’s voice.

The caller claims there has been an accident, arrest, kidnapping, or medical emergency and insists that the situation remain secret.

How to avoid family emergency scams

• Hang up and call the family member directly.
• Contact another relative to verify the story.
• Create a private family verification word.
• Ask a question that a stranger could not answer from social media.
• Never send cash to a courier or pay through gift cards or cryptocurrency.

9. Prize, Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams

Scammers tell victims they have won money, a vacation, or another prize—but must first pay taxes, processing costs, or delivery fees.

How to avoid prize scams

• Remember that legitimate sweepstakes do not require payment to receive a prize.
• Do not provide banking or Social Security information.
• Be suspicious if you did not enter the contest.
• Never deposit a check and return a portion of the funds.
• Ignore demands for gift-card or cryptocurrency payments.

10. Payment-App and Gift-Card Scams

Payment apps are designed to send money quickly, which can make recovery difficult. Scammers may impersonate a bank employee, buyer, seller, friend, or relative and ask for an immediate transfer.

Gift cards are another major warning sign. No legitimate government agency or business will require gift cards as payment. The FTC’s gift-card scam guidance⁠ advises consumers never to share a gift-card number or PIN with an unexpected caller.

How to avoid payment scams

• Confirm payment requests directly with the person involved.
• Review the recipient’s name before sending money.
• Never return an alleged accidental payment by starting a new transaction.
• Do not share gift-card numbers, PINs, or photographs.
• Stop when someone dictates exactly how and where you must pay.

Major Scam Warning Signs

Stop communicating when someone:

• Creates a sudden emergency
• Pressures you to act immediately
• Demands secrecy
• Requests gift cards, cryptocurrency, gold, cash, or a wire transfer
• Promises guaranteed profits
• Asks for passwords, PINs, or verification codes
• Tells you to move money for its protection
• Refuses to let you independently verify the story

What to Do If You Have Been Scammed

Act quickly, but do not feel embarrassed. Scammers are trained to manipulate emotions and create believable situations.

1. Contact your bank, credit union, card issuer, payment app, or gift-card company immediately.
2. Ask whether the transaction can be stopped, recalled, or disputed.
3. Change compromised passwords and enable multifactor authentication.
4. Save emails, text messages, receipts, usernames, phone numbers, and transaction records.
5. Report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission⁠.
6. Report internet-enabled fraud to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center⁠.
7. Use IdentityTheft.gov⁠ for a personalized recovery plan if personal information was stolen.
8. File a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice⁠ or call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.
9. Contact local law enforcement if money was stolen or you are being threatened.

Protect Your Accounts Before a Scam Happens

Use a unique password for every important account, turn on automatic software updates, and enable multifactor authentication for email, banking, social media, and payment accounts. CISA recommends MFA because it adds another identity check beyond a password and makes unauthorized access more difficult. Learn more from CISA⁠.

Most importantly, pause before responding. A few minutes spent verifying a message can prevent significant financial loss. If you need help in Raleigh contact BTDesigns.pro

Follow DoRaleigh.com for more Triangle consumer alerts, public-safety information, community resources, and local news.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

Advertise With Us: Interested in Advertising click here.

Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

⁉️ Here’s WTF happened this week:

➡️ Read the full round-up: https://elliottbledsoe.wtf/wtf-now-49/

1️⃣ AI-generated tracks are not eligible for the ARIA Charts or the ARIA Awards from next week.

2️⃣ TikTok settled their child privacy case for $400 million as testimony in the Meta child safety case claims executives ignored harms.

#WTFnow #AI #AIandMusic #ARIA #ARIAcharts #ARIAawards #SocialMedia #ChildSafety #OnlineSafety #TikTok #ByteDance #Meta #Facebook #Instagram

Hook, hold, harvest and hide: Meta’s alleged strategy laid out in first week of landmark trial

"Meta’s business can be boiled down to four words that begin with the letter H: hook, hold, harvest, hide, according to a lawyer who is prosecuting the world’s largest social media company.

The owner of Facebook and Instagram “hooks” in users, “holds” them on its platforms for as long as possible, “harvests” their data and then “hides” the truth from the public, she argued.

“Meta’s business model worked especially well for kids,” said Megan O’Neill, a lawyer for the state of California.

Her accusation opened the blockbuster trial against the US tech company on Tuesday in Oakland, California, just north of Meta’s headquarters in Silicon Valley. California has joined 28 other US states in suing the £1tn ($1.36tn) company for allegedly designing addictive products that lead to children being harmed."

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/aug/22/meta-trial-children-privacy

#ChildSafety #OnlineSafety #DataHarvesting #News #HumanRights #SocialMedia #Facebook #Meta #Activism

Buy Verified Nsave Account - SmmPaidService https://smmpaidservice.com/product/buy-verified-nsave-account/

#BuyVerifiedNsaveAccount #Nsave #VerifiedAccounts #SocialMediaTips #AccountSecurity #OnlineSafety #DigitalMarketing #VerifiedProfiles #FinanceTips #SaveMoney #Investment #FinancialFreedom #SecureYourAccount #SmartShopping #LegitimateDeals #Trustworthy #OnlineAccount #AccountManagement #FinancialSuccess #CustomerTrust

Looking forward to this TFGBV Community of Practice discussion on “Defining Intimacy, Consent and Harm in the Digital Age" hosted by the Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI).

on 25 August 2026,

9 am EDT | 6 pm IST | 3 pm SAST.

Register at: https://www.svri.org/webinars/defining-intimacy-consent-and-harm-in-the-digital-age/

#TFGBV #DigitalSafety #OnlineSafety #OGBV #GBV #DigitalRights #Consent #DigitalConsent #TechAndSociety #GenderAndTechnology

📱🔐 YOUR PHONE KNOWS MORE ABOUT YOU THAN YOU THINK

Location, photos, contacts, apps, connections, permissions — your smartphone can reveal far more about your daily life than most people realize. 👀📍 A few simple privacy checks can make a huge difference in how much information you share and who gets access to it.

💬 Comment PRIVACY if you want more guides to help you take control of your digital footprint.

#CyberSecurity #DigitalPrivacy #OnlineSafety #PhoneSecurity #CyberAwareness

🚨 ACCOUNT COMPROMISED? THE FIRST 10 MINUTES MATTER.

An unexpected login, a password change you didn’t make, or a strange security alert can be an early warning sign. 🔐⏱️ Knowing what to do immediately can help protect your data, secure your identity, and regain control before the situation gets worse.

💬 Comment SECURE if you want more practical account security guides like this.

#CyberSecurity #AccountSecurity #OnlineSafety #DigitalSecurity #CyberAwareness

‘You’re a 4 out of 10’: the troubling rise of AI appearance ratings
#AI #Youth #Tech #BodyImage #MentalHealth #Looksmaxxing #SocialMedia #OnlineSafety #EatingDisorders #DigitalHealth #BodyDysmorphia #MuscleDysmorphia
https://the-14.com/youre-a-4-out-of-10-the-troubling-rise-of-ai-appearance-ratings/

🪪 IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION GUIDE — What if someone became YOU?

Your identity is more than just your name. 🔐 Your email, phone number, passwords, financial information and personal data can all become pieces of a puzzle that criminals use to impersonate you.

⚠️ Identity theft can lead to stolen accounts, fraudulent purchases, financial loss and months of recovery. The best defense is prevention: protect your personal information, secure your accounts, recognize the warning signs and act quickly when something feels wrong. 🛡️

This guide shows you the practical steps you can take to make your digital identity much harder to steal. 💻🔒

📌 Protect your data. Secure your accounts. Stay one step ahead.

💬 If you made it to the end, comment “PROTECTED” below. 🔐

#CyberSecurity #IdentityTheft #OnlineSafety #Privacy #CyberAwareness

Mashable: Microsoft warns hackers have compromised many hotel WiFi networks. “Microsoft says the WiFi at your hotel might be compromised. In a post on its Threat Intelligence website (via ABC News), Microsoft warned of a new hacking operation called ‘CaptiveCrunch,’ which the company claimed had some ties to Russia.”

Most Canadian teens have seen graphic violence online, and algorithms — not searches — are to blame
#Canada #OnlineSafety #SocialMedia #Algorithms #TeenSafety #MentalHealth #Youth #Tech #YouTube #TikTok #Instagram #Facebook #OnlineHarms #ChildProtection
https://the-14.com/most-canadian-teens-have-seen-graphic-violence-online-and-algorithms-not-searches-are-to-blame/