During significant world events such as the World Cup, many football fans around the globe gather around to watch and support their favourite teams. However, such high-profile events do not only gather fans but scammers as well.
Excitement is a wondrous feeling that oftentimes leaves many of us dropping our guard and becoming susceptible to various fraudulent practices. In the case of football, online scams are a significant risk, especially with streaming websites that claim to offer live football matches. It’s essential to be aware of these scams and know how to avoid falling victim to them.
The Increased Rate of Attacks
With the World Cup being the star of the entertainment world last year, scammers created various fake streaming sites that promised free or low-cost access to live matches. These websites asked football fans to provide personal information, including credit card details or just a simple email address, to gain access.
In other instances, users were tricked into replying to scam lottery letters related to the World Cup. Fans were also targeted through illegitimate Hayya Cards and FIFA-themed crypto tokens and coins. Plenty of football fans have had their excitement turned to shock as they were robbed or had their personal information stolen in ways mentioned earlier. A year has passed since the World Cup, yet football watchers are just as susceptible to online scams.
Because of this, football fans should become more aware of how to recognise scams and more conscious about personal data theft and illegal streaming. In order to recognise and prevent these dangers, fans should be aware of the following:
Stick to Official and Trusted Sources
Football fans should rely only on trusted and official broadcasters or reputable streaming platforms while watching sports events. Legitimate platforms have the necessary rights and licences to broadcast these events legally.
When you use unauthorised streaming sites to view football matches, you gain access to copyrighted content without proper licensing and support illegal activities. This exposes you to potential legal consequences. You can also get scammed and banned from taking legal action as you were committing an illegality in the first place.
Although legitimate broadcasters require a subscription or payment to let users enjoy the match, they are at least legitimate and safe.
Be Wary of Suspicious Websites
Football fans might be tempted to use websites that offer free or heavily discounted access to live football matches, including the World Cup. However, as in many cases, when something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. It’s essential for fans first to notice any warning signs that may hint at the illegitimacy of the website, such as poor design, excessive pop-up ads, or requests for personal information that seem unnecessary or unrelated to the streaming.
Check for HTTPS and Secure Payment Options
If you trust a streaming football website, before entering your personal information or payment details, look if the website has a secure connection. To do this, look for “https://” at the beginning of the URL and a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. Additionally, choose secure payment options such as credit cards or trusted payment gateways to minimise the risk of financial fraud or other issues.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Football fans can use a VPN for streaming, which gives them an additional layer of security and privacy when watching football matches online. A VPN encrypts your internet connection on any device it is installed on. It also prevents others from intercepting your data.
This way, you keep your online activities anonymous and protected from cybercriminals and scammers. You can also use a VPN to connect to servers worldwide and gain access to geo-restricted content, especially to sports events.
Stay Informed, and Don’t Let Excitement Get to You
Football fans should stay up-to-date with the latest news and warnings related to online scams, especially when major events such as the World Cup are nearing. As previously mentioned, scammers and cybercriminals like to focus on catching victims off-guard during such events by prying on their excitement.
Fans who are eager to see and bet on their favourite teams are much more likely to get scammed than others, especially if they don’t stay informed. However, you should always prioritise your security and only use legitimate sources to protect your personal information. This way, you will ensure a legitimate and enjoyable football viewing experience.
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