It's like stepping on a toy in the dark: unexpected, painful and completely unwanted. You were online, bought something, trusted someone or took part in a competition. And suddenly: cheated. Fraud in the digital space is widespread and unfortunately all too well known. But the criticism that follows is often just as painful as the fraud itself.
“It’s your own fault” or “Whoever plays along has lost control of their life”: The accusation that shouldn’t be one! Everyone has read or heard it before: “Why are you so naive?” or “How could this happen?” The list of such hurtful comments, which are often well-intentioned but poorly made, is long. The problem is that such comments are not only unnecessary, but also double punish victims of fraud.
Fraud, especially in the digital space, is more sophisticated than many people think. Hackers and scammers are constantly refining their tactics. They do not always target “naive” or “gullible” people. Sometimes it's the cautious and technically savvy who fall for it.
From the virtual to the real: When online fraud becomes personal
Love scamming – is a form of fraud that has increased rapidly in recent years. The principle: Someone poses as a potential partner online, gains the victim's trust and ultimately tricks them out of money. The tragedy of it? The victims not only lose their money, but also their hearts. And what comes next? Comments like: “How could you trust someone you’ve never met?”
It is not the technology or the medium that is deceiving us. They are people who use their skills to deceive others.
False competitions and false advertising: the greed scam
It sounds too good to be true: an incredible gain for little effort. And yet thousands fall for it. It's not always greed or naivety. Sometimes it's just the hope for a little happiness in life.
Critics often ask, “Why didn’t you do your research beforehand?” But in a world where information is available in seconds, it can be difficult to distinguish truth from fiction.
The fine line between help and denigration
Criticism and comments are actually intended to help and inform. However, all too often they are used to demean or shame others. Unfortunately, the Internet also offers a platform for such negative statements. The anonymity of the Internet leads some people to say things they would never say in real life.
It's important to understand that victims of online fraud already suffer enough. Additional criticism, especially if it is insensitive or shameful, can only cause more harm.
Conclusion: A rethink is required
Falling victim to online fraud is painful enough. The added burden of shame and criticism from strangers or even friends and family can be overwhelming. It is time that we as a society understand that anyone can become a victim, regardless of age, education or technical knowledge. Instead of blaming or shaming, we should show support and empathy. This is the only way we can work together to combat the growing tide of online fraud.
Mimikama.education
can impart media literacy through targeted lectures and workshops. Various target groups such as students, teachers and parents can be reached and sensitized. How do search engines work?
How can I search images? These techniques are particularly helpful for exposing fakes, hoaxes or dangerous hoaxes. NEW! Geoguessing workshops at Mimikama! Turn the search for truth into an exciting adventure with our geoguessing workshop!
An evergreen: Did Julia Gillard really make these statements?
Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )