Google’s Dark Side: 5 search terms to avoid at all cost

Ever Google search for coupons or promo codes? You’ll probably waste 15 minutes putting in codes that don’t work. At worst, you’ll end up on a malware-infected site. Use these proven tricks to save money instead.

Streaming is expensive, so you might be tempted to look up free TV shows or movies. Don’t do it. There are seriously sketchy sites out there. I put together a list of ways to get free movies and shows you can trust.

It doesn’t end there — not even close. How can a simple Google search be dangerous? Keep reading.

SEO poisoning and scammy ads

Google anything and you get pages of search results. At the very top are the “Sponsored Results.” These are paid ads businesses use to drive traffic to their websites.

Google doesn’t vet everyone who buys an ad. Cybercrooks can buy ads just like trustworthy companies — except they hide nasty malware on their sites. Scammers are getting good at SEO, so their malicious search results are at the top of the organic results.

So, what terms should you avoid? Sadly, there’s a whole lot. Let’s focus on five that could do some real damage.

1. Free credit report

There are legitimate ways to get a free credit report. But cybercriminals go after the juiciest search terms and think about all they can get their hands on if you think it’s a site you can trust.

The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires the three credit reporting agencies (Transunion, Experian, and Equifax) to provide U.S. consumers with a free annual credit report. There are a variety of ways you can request a copy of your annual report from each agency:

  • Online: www.AnnualCreditReport.com
  • Phone: 1-877-FACTACT (1-877-322-8228)

If you want to send by mail, download and complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form, then send it to:

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Want a fun side job? 5 off-the-wall ways to make money online

Want to work from home? There are countless creative things you can do to earn money. We rounded up five fun and unconventional ways to make money online.

After all, you don’t have time to research every off-the-wall job. Searching for “weird ways to make money fast” or “best ways to earn money on the side” will take a long time. If you struggle to find accurate search results, use these five Google research tips.

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Online jury members make good money

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Want to make money online? If you like real crime stories, check out these online juror jobs. Here’s how much you could make, in 60 seconds.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cryptocurrency and donations: How digital currency is changing how we give and receive money

Right now, the world of cryptocurrency is like the Wild West. Just think about all of the modern-day prospectors searching for their fortunes. If you’re looking for gold in the digital world, I’ve got a ton of resources to help you!

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Looking for extra cash? Don't get taken in by secret shopper scams

It’s always a good idea to have some extra cash in the bank. Whether you’re saving up for a family vacation or just want to have a little tucked away in case of an emergency, a part-time gig can help.

If you’re lucky, you might be able to find a work-from-home job and not even have to leave the house. Tap or click here to see the 20 best ways to make money online.

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5 online auction websites to try if you love buying and selling on eBay

Everyone likes saving money and finding ways to put some extra cash in their pockets. Who couldn’t use a few extra bucks?

Maybe you have kids or grandkids you’re helping with college tuition. We all know how expensive that can be! Or maybe you’re just retired and living on a fixed income. If so, every dollar counts.

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