'The Odyssey' streaming scam could steal your bank info
Scammers set up fake movie streaming websites to trick you into entering your credit card number. They claim to offer a free trial but actually steal your financial information and may infect your computer with malware.
How it works
You find a website advertising free streaming of a popular movie. The site asks you to create an account and provide credit card information for a supposedly free trial. Once you enter your details, criminals use your card number and personal data for fraud or sell it to other thieves. Some sites also download malware onto your computer to harvest more sensitive information over time.
Red flags to watch for
- Website offers a big-name movie for free when it's not available free elsewhere
- Site asks for credit card details even though it claims to be free
- URL looks slightly off or unfamiliar compared to real streaming services
- No recognizable company branding or privacy policy on the site
- Your computer suddenly runs slower or shows unexpected pop-ups after visiting
What to do
Do not enter your credit card or personal information into unfamiliar streaming sites, even if they promise a free trial. Use only official streaming apps and services you know and trust, or visit them by typing the web address directly into your browser rather than clicking links. If you already entered your card details on a suspicious site, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report it and watch your statements for unauthorized charges.
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Source: Fox News. Scam Sentinel summarizes this news report in plain language; it is a decision aid, not a guarantee.