New sting method (freepik photo, pexels)
Online surveys and quizzes are all over the internet. They are very easy to set up, the cost of setting them up is low, it is easy for respondents to answer them and it is easy for researchers to analyze their results. No wonder they are still one of the most popular tools marketers use to reach and research their target audiences.
Many of them are indeed legitimate and even offer payment or something else in exchange for answering them. Every penny helps, especially in these days of the cost of living crisis. Perhaps you also have another reason (and it is a good reason) to participate in them – assuming that you also understand the value of the information you provide about yourself and your family.
More in-
But since it is also easy and simple for cybercriminals to imitate legitimate surveys and use them for their needs, while giving “rewards” in exchange for answers to a number of seemingly innocent questions, how can you differentiate between a legitimate survey and a fake survey?
It doesn’t matter if the fraudsters are trying to steal your passwords, credit card details, your information or install malware on your computer or other device, you should understand what the risks are and how you can identify what is real and what is not.
Signs of fake surveys: The information security company ESET explains that these malicious campaigns are a growing source of income for cybercriminals. One study recently revealed that one network of criminals made $80 million a month from victims all over the world – by using surveys and giving away prizes on behalf of more than 120 well-known brands, designed to lure their victims.
These are some of the red flags to watch out for according to ESET: The scam usually starts with an email or SMS and even a WhatsApp message that arrived without prior arrangement, and were likely sent as spam to a huge number of other victims. Of course, this is a phishing message designed to lure the recipient and make him fall into the trap by clicking on the link.
Most of these messages will include a well-known brand that creates a sense of legitimacy and encourages the victim to participate. In September 2021, a fake survey impersonated the Rami Levy and Shufersal networks, and promised the recipients a chance to win a “2000 NIS gift” if they answered a short survey. In addition, the scam may also include a systematic nature – when usually “on the occasion of the 50th birthday celebrations there is a huge activity carrying prizes.
Comments to the article(0):
Your response has been received and will be published subject to system policy.
Thanks.
for a new comment
Your response was not sent due to a communication problem, please try again.
Return to comment