How Reverse Image Searches can help if you're being Scammed
Today, manipulated photos are used to spread misinformation, shaping public opinion for hidden agendas. ( Click here to read my related article on fake news in this series. ) Criminal organizations run targeted scams against specific groups, aiming to defraud them. Often, scammers use photos of themselves to build trust. Sadly, I know people who were devastated after falling victim. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, crafting strategies to build rapport with their victims. You can learn more about a specific scam called “ pig butchering ” from John Oliver’s Last Week Tonight episode that aired in February 2024 (link: https://youtu.be/pLPpl2ISKTg?si=lkyKTCp7CL2WyIER ). Additionally, a YouTube search for “ romance scams, fraudsters ” will reveal hours of valuable information. The key takeaway: people of all ages and backgrounds can fall prey to these schemes, losing thousands. In some cases, life savings are lost, or victims go into debt. Even without financial devasta