How to detect fake web pages?

Detecting fake websites is crucial in the digital age as it protects your online security and personal data. Although we cannot rely on social media details or reviews, there are still several professional techniques that can help you identify fraudulent websites. Here we provide you with some essential tips:

Check the URL:
Start by carefully examining the website URL. Make sure the domain is legitimate and spelled correctly. Scammers often create domains similar to those of popular sites to confuse people.

Check the protocol:
Examine whether the website uses “https://” instead of “http://.” The “s” in “https” indicates that the connection is encrypted and more secure. Legitimate websites tend to use this protocol.

Investigate the source:
Investigate the source of the link that took you to the website. Avoid clicking on suspicious links in unsolicited emails or text messages. Access the website directly from the browser.

Evaluate the design and quality:
Look at the design and quality of the website. Fake websites often have a sloppy appearance with old or outdated content.

Find contact information:
Check if the website provides verifiable contact information, such as a physical address and chat that matches the brand. Legitimate sites usually have this information available.

Review the privacy policy and terms of use:
Review the website’s privacy policy and terms of use. Fake sites often lack this documentation or present generic, poorly written versions.

Analyze the authenticity of the images:
Right click on the images on the website and select “Search Google Image” to check if the images have been used on other websites. Commonly used images could be a warning sign.
Check the age of the domain:

Look for security certificates:
Some legitimate sites may display security certification seals on their home page. However, keep in mind that these stamps can also be counterfeited.

Use verification tools:
Use online tools, such as Google Safe Browsing, to check if the website has been reported as dangerous. You can also use browser extensions that identify malicious websites.

Trust your instinct:
If something seems suspicious or too good to be true, it probably is. Intuition plays an important role in detecting fake websites.
In short, detecting fake websites requires vigilance and attention to detail. These tips will help you navigate the web more safely and protect your personal data. Remember that online safety is a shared responsibility, so share these tips with friends and family to help them avoid falling for online scams.