The title of my blog post and video is, how to avoid online scams. I created this post to help you avoid the traps I ran into when I first tried to earn money online. My aim has always been to recommend tools and platforms that genuinely help people, not to push something just to make a commission. Back in 2001 I bought my first computer and connected via dial-up. It was barely usable beyond sending email. In 2004, I moved to broadband and everything changed. The web suddenly became practical and powerful. The problem was I could see the potential, but I had no idea how to turn that into income.
The Expensive Learning Curve
Like many beginners, I searched for “how to make money online” and ran into bold claims, upsells and vague promises. After wasting money on products that did not deliver, it still took me three years to get my first proper money-making website off the ground. The turning point was getting professional training and following a proven process.
How I Spot Scams Today
- Overpromising results: guaranteed income, fast riches, or headline numbers with no proof.
- No transparency: no real names, no company details, no verifiable track record.
- Endless upsells: bait with something cheap, then lock the real information behind repeated upgrades.
- No real education: they never explain how the business model works or what skills you’ll learn.
- Pressure tactics: fake countdown timers, “only 10 spots left,” or fear of missing out.
Why Training and Community Matter
I have been a paying member of Wealthy Affiliate for over 11 years. The combination of step-by-step training, tools, and a helpful community made a real difference. If I had joined a genuine training platform at the start, I would have saved a lot of time and money.
If you are evaluating any platform, compare it against competitors, read independent reviews, and look for a transparent curriculum that teaches skills you can reuse.
Cheap vs Quality: A Quick Analogy
On my garden machinery site I often compare budget tools with professional-grade equipment. Cheap can work for very light use, but quality kit lasts and performs. It is similar online: low-quality programs look affordable, but well-built platforms with real training usually win long-term.
Diversifying Income (Including Crypto)
I have recently added a crypto stream with 9M. This is not financial advice; it is simply something I am using that currently works for me. Do your own research, understand the risks, and only invest what you can afford to lose.
A Simple Due-Diligence Checklist
- Search for independent reviews and complaints, not just testimonials on the sales page.
- Confirm who runs it, where the company is based, and how long it has operated.
- Look for a clear curriculum, support, and examples of student work or case studies.
- Check refund terms and ongoing costs before you buy.
- Sleep on it. If it requires a split-second decision, it is probably not for you.