Have you ever read a news story about someone getting scammed and thought to yourself, “That definitely won’t happen to me”? It’s a common reaction, one rooted in the belief that we’re too smart, too careful, or simply not the type to be fooled. But the truth is, online scams are getting more convincing every day, and scammers know how to target just about anyone. Believing you’re not at risk can actually make you more vulnerable, as it often leads to letting your guard down.

This kind of mindset can be one of the biggest obstacles to staying safe online. For example, even if you’re shopping with the most secure credit card available, making a purchase on a sketchy website just because things have always worked out before can still leave you exposed. That false sense of security can result in financial loss, stolen personal information, or even identity theft.

To break out of that “it won’t happen to me” mentality, we’ve put together some practical tips you can keep in mind to stay alert and protect yourself online.

1. Accept That It Can Happen to You

The first step to staying safe online is acknowledging that anyone can fall victim to scams or cyberattacks. No matter how careful you think you are, scammers are using increasingly clever tricks designed to fool even the most cautious individuals. Once you understand that cyber threats are real and can affect anyone, you’ll naturally become more alert and careful in your online activities, reducing the chances of falling into common traps.

2. Use Strong Passwords and 2FA

Strong, unique passwords are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your online accounts. Avoid reusing passwords across multiple sites and steer clear of simple or predictable choices. Using a password manager can also make it easier to generate and store complex passwords without the hassle of remembering them all.

On top of that, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) or using financial products that have it by default provides added security for your accounts. This feature requires you to verify your identity with a second step when logging in, usually with a code sent to your phone, making it much harder for hackers to access your accounts even if they manage to steal your password. Together, strong passwords and 2FA form a solid defense against unauthorized access.

3. Utilize Your Credit Card’s Safety Features

Using a credit card for online purchases is generally safer than other payment methods because of its built-in fraud protections. However, that doesn’t mean you should be careless. Even with the safest credit card at your disposal, it still goes a long way to be extra careful when using it online. For example, always shop on reputable websites, avoid saving your card details unless you fully trust the platform, and regularly review your statements for any unusual activity.

For secure online credit card transactions, Maya’s Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card is a trusted choice. One of its standout security features is the dynamic CVV, which generates a new code each time your card details are accessed through the Maya app. Each dynamic CVV is valid for only 24 hours, adding an extra layer of protection by removing the need to use your permanent CVV for online purchases. This helps prevent fraudsters from reusing your card information to make unauthorized transactions. You can also track every card transaction in the Maya app, making it easy to monitor your spending and quickly spot any suspicious activity.

In addition, using your card’s spending control features can effectively limit the impact of fraudulent activity. The Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card gives you full control, allowing you to toggle online or foreign transactions on or off and set daily spending limits, all easily managed through the Maya app. With these features at your fingertips, it’s easier than ever to stay secure and in control of your credit card use.

4. Verify Websites and Emails

Before entering any personal or financial details online, take a moment to confirm that the website is legitimate. Look for “https://” and a padlock icon in the address bar as these indicate a secure connection. On top of that, be cautious of websites with unusual URLs, spelling errors, or low-quality design, as these are often red flags for phishing sites designed to steal your information.

The same level of scrutiny should also be applied to emails. Be wary of messages that ask for sensitive information, create a sense of urgency, or include anything that seems unusual or out of place. Scammers often impersonate trusted companies to gain your confidence. If something doesn’t feel right, avoid clicking on links or opening attachments. Instead, contact the company directly using information found on their official website to confirm whether the message is legitimate.

5. Avoid Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals

Scammers often lure victims with unbelievably low prices or massive discounts. While these offers may seem enticing, they frequently come from fake websites designed to steal your money or personal information. Always research the seller first before making a purchase. Check for reviews, verify contact details, and be cautious of sites that pressure you to act quickly or don’t provide clear return and contact policies.

If you’re after real, dependable savings, it’s smarter to take advantage of your credit card’s rewards instead. The Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, in particular, gives you up to 5% cashback at Landers, 2% on dining spends, and 1% on all other qualified transactions.* Moreover, since it’s a Visa card, you can also enjoy access to various Visa-exclusive rewards. This way, every purchase works in your favor as it helps you earn cashback and save on your Landers grocery trips—no risks, no guessing, and no scams.

6. Be Careful of What You Share Online

Oversharing personal details on social media or other platforms can make you an easy target for scammers. Information like your birthday, pet’s name, or hometown might seem harmless, but it can be used to guess passwords or answer security questions. It’s a good idea to think twice before posting anything sensitive or too personal online.

Also, be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These are common methods scammers use to spread malware or steal your information. Staying mindful about what you share and where you click helps keep your data safer.

The “it won’t happen to me” mindset might feel reassuring, but it can quietly open the door to risks you didn’t see coming. The reality is, staying safe online takes constant awareness and a willingness to adapt as threats continue to evolve. With the help of the tips above, you can build stronger defenses and take control of your digital security before it’s too late.

*Transactions that don’t qualify include: cash in, cash advance, quasi cash purchases, casinos and gambling, fuel, supermarket, pharmaceuticals, utilities, telco, and government.