Coax or Hoax: Is that post real or fake?

by Christina Yeager

Part of what makes the Internet fun is that there's a smorgasbord of deals, promotions, information, news and incredulous stories to be seen while scrolling down your Facebook wall. But not every post that catches your eye is legit - and those that aren't can do serious damage. Spotting a real post can be tricky and recognizing a fake post can be even trickier. How can you tell the difference and protect yourself, your account, and your friends and family? 

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Coax or Hoax?
 
Let’s explore the definition of both words, shall we?

Coax:  to attempt to influence by gentle persuasion, flattery, etc.

Hoax:  something intended to deceive or defraud

Well, that makes sense, doesn't it? But…it does not sum up the information. Making an assessment of what may be “real” or what may be “fake” is tough business - especially when both types of posts use similar methods to entice your click!

However, if you know what you're looking for it can save you tons of time from NOT having to change your passwords as often and tons of worry from thinking your account or identity has been compromised.

Keep reading to learn how to distinguish true posts from hoax posts!

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Coax

A coaxing post is meant to pull you in with a sweet deal, prize or juicy content/news to cajole you into clicking the posts. Most businesses use this approach to simply grab your attention in hopes that you’ll either like their page or sign up for their new promotion.

These posts are usually innocent links, images and questions to persuade you to interact with their brand. No harm no foul.

Spot a REAL post: 

• Promotions, giveaways, discounts that lead to legit sites and/or “contest” tabs
  
• Post is made from a business page
  
• Links back to a legitimate news site or page

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Hoax
 
Hoaxing posts are created for one simple reason: to scam. Clicking on these posts will only bring frustration and sometimes even shame.

Scammers and schemers use fake stories and altered images to pick up your curiosity and deceive you into clicking.

These posts are used to reroute you to other bogus sites that slap some spyware or malware your way and/or trick you into sharing the phony post with friends and family.

Spot a FAKE post:

• The story, news, deal, etc. sounds too good to be true
  
• The image depicts something unbelievable
  
• Information is over-excited and shocking
• Post has catchy phrases such as "RARE" or "UNCUT VIDEO"

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Still not sure? Look to the lower left of your screen when you hover your mouse over the post and see what the URL connected to the post is. If it's "www.starbucks.com" or something as clear-cut, you're fine. If it's an impossible string of numbers, letters and gibberish, best to steer clear. If the outlandish claim being made is really true, it'll make its way to the evening news. 

Have anything to add? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

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