Google’s Dark Side: 5 search terms to avoid at all cost
Ever Google search for coupons or promo codes? You’ll probably waste 15 minutes putting in codes that don’t work. At worst, you’ll end up on a malware-infected site. Use these proven tricks to save money instead.
Streaming is expensive, so you might be tempted to look up free TV shows or movies. Don’t do it. There are seriously sketchy sites out there. I put together a list of ways to get free movies and shows you can trust.
It doesn’t end there — not even close. How can a simple Google search be dangerous? Keep reading.
SEO poisoning and scammy ads
Google anything and you get pages of search results. At the very top are the “Sponsored Results.” These are paid ads businesses use to drive traffic to their websites.
Google doesn’t vet everyone who buys an ad. Cybercrooks can buy ads just like trustworthy companies — except they hide nasty malware on their sites. Scammers are getting good at SEO, so their malicious search results are at the top of the organic results.
So, what terms should you avoid? Sadly, there’s a whole lot. Let’s focus on five that could do some real damage.
1. Free credit report
There are legitimate ways to get a free credit report. But cybercriminals go after the juiciest search terms and think about all they can get their hands on if you think it’s a site you can trust.
The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires the three credit reporting agencies (Transunion, Experian, and Equifax) to provide U.S. consumers with a free annual credit report. There are a variety of ways you can request a copy of your annual report from each agency:
- Online: www.AnnualCreditReport.com
- Phone: 1-877-FACTACT (1-877-322-8228)
If you want to send by mail, download and complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form, then send it to:
Watch out! 10 warning signs a job offer is actually a scam
Looking for a remote job? Tap or click for work from home jobs in high demand.
These positions were already in demand before the pandemic, as they offer more flexibility and a work-life balance you won’t find in an office position. But while you may be on the prowl for a job that won’t require you to commute, you need to be careful of what you’re getting yourself into. It could be a scam.
Looking for a job? Crooks have new tricks to con you
Finding employment in the current economic situation can be challenging, but thankfully, it is improving steadily. The latest unemployment data shows that it fell by 0.2% in February, with over 670,000 positions filled.