How to avoid typosquatting scams
Online banking, payment apps and investment tools make everyday financial tasks easier than ever. But the same convenience that helps accountholders also gives scammers new ways to take advantage of simple mistakes — like one mistyped letter in a web address. Learning how to avoid typosquatting scams can help accountholders protect their financial information online.
What is typosquatting?
Typosquatting, or URL hijacking, happens when cybercriminals register website addresses that look almost identical to trusted sites. They rely on users making small typing errors or clicking too quickly. These look-alike and fake banking websites can be convincing, and once someone lands on one, they may be prompted to enter login credentials or other sensitive financial information.
The good news is that a few simple habits can make a big difference in protecting accountholders and overall online banking security.
How do typosquatting scams work?
Typosquatting scams succeed because they take advantage of normal human behavior. We're busy. We move quickly. And sometimes, one extra letter, a missing character or the wrong domain ending — such as “.org” instead of “.com” — is all it takes to send someone to the wrong site. Scammers don't always need to break into systems. Sometimes, they just need someone to be in a hurry.
How can financial institutions help accountholders stay safer online?
Practicing safe online banking habits remains one of the most effective ways to reduce risk and avoid scams like typosquatting. Share these tips with accountholders to help them spot a fake website:
- Bookmark trusted websites you use often
- Type web addresses carefully when entering them manually
- Use official mobile apps when available
- Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails or messages
- Be cautious with sponsored search results, which may lead to look-alike or fake banking websites
- Look for “https” and the padlock icon before entering sensitive information
- Pause and confirm the site is legitimate before signing in or sharing personal information
These steps may seem simple, but they work, especially as banking website scams become more polished and harder to detect.
Fighting cybercrime doesn't always require complex technology. Sometimes, scams can be avoided just by slowing down, checking details and making it harder for bad actors to exploit small mistakes. When accountholders build safe online habits, they can better protect their financial information and help strengthen online banking security.
SHAZAM, Inc., and ITS, Inc., provide this blog for general informational purposes only. The blog may be shared via direct link, provided the content remains unchanged and is presented as originally published. SHAZAM, Inc., and ITS, Inc., assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. By using this blog, readers acknowledge that the information provided does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified, licensed attorney.