You are checking your emails, scrolling through social media, or shopping online, and then it happens. A message pops up claiming there is an issue with your bank account, a missed parcel delivery, or even an amazing prize waiting for you. It looks legit, but something feels off.
That is how many online scams start; quick, convincing, and designed to catch you off guard.
At APS Bank, we know how easy it is to fall victim to scams, even if you are usually cautious. Fraudsters are getting smarter, impersonating trusted companies, including banks, using emails, phone calls, SMS, and even QR codes. But with the right knowledge, awareness and tools, you can stay a step ahead.
That is why we have put together this guide. We will walk you through the most common scam tactics, the warning signs to watch out for, and what you can do, alongside APS Bank, to keep your personal and financial information safe, because the best way to fight online scams is to spot it before it happens.
The Top 10 Online Scams to Look Out For
Online scams takes many shapes and forms. Some scams are easy to spot, whilst others can catch even the most tech-savvy individuals off guard. Here are the ten most common types you should know:
1. Phishing emails and texts
These are fake emails or SMS messages that look like they are from your bank, a delivery company, or even government agencies. They often include a link that takes you to a fake website asking for your login details, PIN, or card number.
Warning sign: a sense of urgency: “Your account will be closed unless you act now!”
2. Fake bank calls
Someone claiming to be from the bank, like APS Bank, saying that there is a problem with your account and asking for PINs or login details.
Warning sign: APS Bank will never ask for information such as your myAPS PIN, passwords, CVV, full card number, or security questions over email, phone, or SMS.
3. Investment or Cryptocurrency Scams
You are promised huge returns with little or no risk. These often come via unsolicited emails or social media messages claiming you can “double your money” quickly.
Warning sign: be careful if someone says an investment is risk-free. All investments carry some level of risk, and no one can honestly promise you huge profits overnight.
4. Fake job offers
Fraudsters offer high-paying jobs with minimal effort, usually via email or social media. These often involve upfront fees for “training” or equipment, or requests for personal information.
Warning sign: you are asked to pay money before even signing a contract.
5. Online shopping scams
Fake websites or social media ads promote incredible deals on popular products. You make a purchase, but the item never arrives or what you receive is nothing like what was advertised.
Warning Sign: no physical address or customer service details on the site.
6. Romance scams
The fraudster creates fake profiles on dating sites or social media, build emotional connections, and then ask for money usually claiming some form of emergency.
Warning sign: they avoid video calls and always have a reason why they cannot meet in person.
7. Tech support scams
A pop-up or cold call tells you there is a virus on your device, or someone pretending to be from your bank asks you to install a remote access app like AnyDesk. Once installed, scammers can take control of your device and access your online banking.
Warning sign: you are asked to install software or give access to your device. We will never ask you to download third-party apps. If this happens, end the call immediately and contact us.
8. Social media giveaways and surveys
You are offered a prize or voucher in exchange for sharing personal information or clicking on a link. These are often used to harvest data or install malware.
Warning sign: the offer sounds too good to be true, and it usually is.
9. Rental or property scams
You find a flat or holiday rental at an unusually low price. The “landlord” asks for a deposit to secure the place, but the property either does not exist or is not theirs to let.
Warning Sign: you are pressured to send money quickly without viewing the property.
10. Advanced payment scams
A fraudster promises to grant a loan, or another financial service, but requires you to pay an upfront fee for processing, insurance, or guarantees. Once you pay, the loan or service never materialises, and the scammer disappears.
Warning sign: if you are asked to pay upfront to get a loan, stop and think! It might be a scam.
How to Avoid Getting Scammed
Avoiding online scams is not about being paranoid, it is about being informed. Here are practical steps you can take to stay safe online:
- Stop and think: fraudsters rely on pressure and urgency. Take a moment before clicking links, transferring money, or giving out information, especially if something feels off or it is not normal.
- Verify the source: if you get a message from your bank, delivery service, or utility provider, do not reply directly. Instead, contact the company using an official number or website. Check out our official domains and social media accounts.
- Use strong, unique passwords: avoid using the same password across accounts. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and change your passwords regularly.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): wherever possible, add an extra layer of protection with 2FA. This adds a second step when logging in (like a code sent to your phone), so even if someone knows your password, they still cannot get into your account.
- Keep software updated: install the latest updates on your phone, tablet, and computer. Updates fix security gaps that fraudsters could use to get in.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking: using unsecured Wi-Fi at cafes or airports for sensitive activity like online banking increases the risk of data theft. Use your mobile data or a trusted network instead.
- Check URLs carefully: scammers create fake websites that look almost identical to real ones. Always check for spelling errors in the address or an unusual domain before entering your login details.
- Use trusted payment methods: avoid sending money via wire transfer or gift cards, these are nearly impossible to recover. Use secure payment platforms or your bank’s card services, which may offer protection.
- Report suspicious activity: if you think you have been targeted, report it immediately. Our customers can contact us directly for support, and we will guide you on what to do next.
- Educate others: share what you know with friends and family, especially those who may be less confident online. Awareness is one of the best defences against online scams.
What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Message or Call
If someone claiming to be from APS Bank asks for your card number, CVV, myAPS codes or PIN, hang up immediately. Then:
- Call our Contact Centre directly on (+356) 2122 6644
- Report the incident to the Malta Police Force
- Avoid transferring money based on instructions from unverified calls
- Do not allow remote access to your computer or device under any circumstances
How APS Bank Keeps You Safe from Online Scams
We take your security seriously. We employ strict prevention tools and proactive customer protection systems, including:
- Secure platforms for all banking services
- Regular customer education on cyber safety and fraud prevention
- Dedicated support team for reporting suspicious activity
Get Started with APS Bank
At APS Bank, we are not just here to support your finances, we are here to protect them. Cybercrime is constantly evolving, which is why we are committed to keeping our customers informed and secure.
Here is how we can help:
- Secure myAPS banking platform with multi-layer authentication
- Up-to-date alerts on the latest scam trends on our social media
- One-on-one guidance through our branches or Contact Centre
- Educational resources on how to bank safely on our online channels
Visit our website to learn how to stay protected.
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Approved and issued by APS Bank plc, APS Centre, Tower Street, B’Kara BKR 4012. APS Bank plc is regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority as a Credit Institution under the Banking Act 1994 and to carry out Investment Services activities under the Investment Services Act 1994. The Bank is also registered as a Tied Insurance intermediary under the Insurance Distribution Act 2018.
