How to Check Out a Hoax

Checking out hoaxes is amazingly simple today. Access to the internet has made researching hoaxes a finger tip away in finding out the truth. Checking with local police, government or reliable websites will make checking out the hoax easy.

Identify a Potential Hoax

Remember if it is promising free anything then it probably is too good to be true. Internet hoaxes are easy to check with government or state websites.

Two common internet hoaxes are:

• Hoaxes – that can be malicious, instructing the user to delete an important file to the operating system claiming it has a virus. It also can convince users to send money or personal information.
• Urban Legends- are designed to be redistributed among users. It usually warns users of a threat or claim to be notifying the user of urgent information. Common ones are promised of monetary award for forwarding the message or signing something for a particular group. There is no negative effect from these legends.

Some other hoaxes involve cashier checks or advance fee fraud scams. Rule of thumb is- if it promises money or asks for personal information it needs to be researched. Never give out any money or personal information. If you are being pressured or it is “now or never” tactic then it’s probably a potential scam, just walk away. Any one of these types of hoaxes can be checked through local or government websites or the Federal Trade Commission. Report any potential hoaxes to the proper authorities.

Check Out Potential Hoaxes

There are many different ways to check out a potential hoax:

• If it involves a check, call the bank that the check is from.
• Google the address listed (it may not even exist)
• Call local police for common scams in your area
• Check the company with the Better Business Bureau
• Do research on hoaxes in your area through news stations, local newspapers and through the internet.
• Government websites will list the latest hoaxes
• Check with reliable websites online about the potential hoax

Stay Vigilant Regarding Hoaxes

Doing your homework will protect your wallet, and personal information. Using the internet as a resource is a fast and convenient way to check out a scam. Never let anyone pressure you, if your gut instinct is telling you “I have doubt” then it’s a scam. Always take the time to think about it. The next day or two will give you plenty of time to process the information.

Easy Step By Step Instructions When Checking Out Hoaxes

• Identify any potential hoaxes through identifiers or even just a gut feeling
• Use the internet and other local resources to identify whether or not he hoax is a valid offer.
• Stay vigilant regarding hoaxes to avoid being tricked in the future.

Warnings, Advice, and Suggestions When Checking Out a Hoax

Remember to report any hoaxes to the appropriate authorities to help protect others who might not be as savvy.

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