What is an effective strategy for identifying scams?

Reading consumer reviews and reports is an effective strategy for identifying scams because it allows individuals to gather information from others who may have had similar experiences. This shared knowledge can highlight red flags that may not be immediately obvious. Consumer reviews often include detailed insights about the legitimacy of a service or product, potential scams, and experiences of other customers. By taking the time to read these reviews, a person can make a more informed decision and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.

In contrast, trusting unsolicited emails can lead to harmful decisions, as many scams begin with these tactics. Relying solely on word-of-mouth can be risky, as it may not provide a comprehensive view of a situation—especially if the source is not reliable or well-informed. Ignoring documentation, such as terms and conditions or official communications, can result in overlooking important information that could indicate a scam. Each of these options does not provide the same level of thoroughness or reliable insight that consumer reviews and reports do, making reading them a sound strategy for identifying scams.