If the domain of the website is not secure, do not do business with them. You can tell if the site is secure by looking immediately to the left of the URL at the top of the page. It will say whether the site is secure or not secure.
If a site is secure, it might still be a scam.
If the site is not a .com, .net, or .org, and it’s asking for your money, it’s probably a scam.
Check the reputation of the site at ScamAdviser.com. However, be aware websites that have a good reputation on ScamAdviser.com may still be a scam. Many scammers purchase used domains with good reputations. Don’t let ScamAdviser be your only reason to do business with a website.
ScamAdviser can also tell you if the website is new. Most scam sites are less than a year old.
I wouldn’t want to generalize that so much. The TLD is chosen by the website owner. However, Freenom sites asking for money are much more shady, because anyone can get a Freenom TLD without paying.
Shady actors typically try to make you think something is scarce or a limited time offer. They want to push victims to make a decision right now before even thinking through, asking family members, friends or a financial advisors. Sometimes, they’ll advise to avoid contacting anyone and to just trust them. While high-pressure sales tactics are also used by some legitimate businesses, it typically isn’t a good idea to make an important decision quickly.
Use secure and traceable transactions. Do not pay by wire transfer, prepaid money card, gift card, or other non-traditional payment method (see number one above). Say no to cash-only deals, high pressure sales tactics, high upfront payments, overpayments, and handshake deals without a contract. Read all of the small print on the contract and make sure to understand what the terms are.
Whenever possible, work with local businesses. Ask that they have proper identification, licensing, and insurance, especially contractors who will be coming into your home or anyone dealing with your money or sensitive information.
Never share personally identifiable information with someone who has contacted you unsolicited, whether it’s over the phone, by email, on social media, even at your front door. This includes banking and credit card information, your birthdate, and Social Security/Social Insurance numbers.
What to do if You’ve Been Scammed
Call your bank or credit card company right away
File a complaint with the marketplace that you purchased your item from (Amazon, etc.)
File a police report
Reset your passwords
Update your anti-virus software
Be Proactive – Tips to Stay Safe
Check your credit reports regularly and keep an eye out for any unusual activity
Don’t use the same password for all websites and services
If you are unsure of a website, run the address through Google’s Safe Browsing to see its legitimacy
If you’re purchasing from a particular site for the first time, read their reviews
Use PayPal for online shopping to keep your personal details private from others
Keep your devices updated with the latest software to protect against any viruses
Keep your personal information private, especially on social media. Avoid posting things that provide personal details such as birthdays, mother’s maiden name, etc. that could be used to answer security questions
I put unique nonsense into the security questions then write it down for each account. The security questions are like passwords in themselves in a way.