Although the Internet has made many common daily activities more efficient and easier, such as shopping, banking, and communicating from anywhere, it is essential to remain safe, secure, and responsible when using the Web.
Protect your privacy and security
There are several simple steps you can take to prevent your computer and personal information from being stolen, improperly used, or destroyed.
- Scams: It’s important to learn how to identify scams and take steps to avoid falling for them.
- Computer and Online Security: To protect yourself from scammers, hackers, and identity thieves, it’s important to keep your information and computer secure when using the Internet.
If you are a parent, it is also important to talk to your children about how to be safe and responsible online.
Cybercrime and Internet fraud
Scammers across the United States and around the world cheat millions of people every year.
They use the Internet to trick individuals into sending money or revealing personal details.
Types of Internet fraud
Internet crime plans target victims in a variety of ways.
- Internet auction fraud: This involves misrepresenting a product sold on an online auction site or failing to deliver the promised merchandise.
- Credit card fraud: Scammers use stolen or unauthorized credit or debit card numbers to gain access to money or property.
- Investment fraud: This occurs when false claims are made to attract investments or loans, or to sell counterfeit or counterfeit securities.
- Nigerian letter or “419” fraud: In the name of a violation of section 419 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, the scandal combines impersonation fraud with an upfront fee scheme, where the victim receives a letter, email or fax.
Tips to avoid internet fraud
Taking preventive steps can help you stay informed before engaging in online transactions.
- Know your seller: If you’re unsure about who you’re buying online, do some research to make sure the seller is trustworthy.
- Protect your personal information: Avoid providing your personal details in response to websites you access via email, pop-ups, or websites.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) provides additional tips to help you and your family stay safe from various types of online fraud. (http://www.fbi.gov/scamssafety/fraud/internet_fraud/)
Report Internet fraud
If you believe that you are a victim of Internet fraud or cybercrime, this is necessary.
– You can report a cyber scam or threat by filing a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
(http://www.ic3.gov/complaint/default.aspx)
Report cyber crime
If you believe that you are a victim of an Internet-related crime, you can file a report with these official authorities.
The – Internet Crime Complaints Center (IC3) advances Internet-related criminal complaints to federal, state, local, and international law enforcement agencies.
- Econsumer.gov accepts complaints about online and related transactions with foreign companies.
- The Department of Justice (DOJ) may assist in the reporting of computer, Internet-related or intellectual property crimes to the appropriate agency, depending on the nature of the crime.
Phishing and Vishing
Phishing is a scam where you receive a fraudulent email, intended to steal your identity or important personal information, such as credit card number, bank account number, debit card PIN, and password. These phishing emails often ask you to verify your information. They may claim that your account has been hacked or that there was a false charge on one of your accounts, and you are instructed to click on a link in the email or provide your bank details to confirm your identity or secure your account. Legitimate companies never ask for your password or account number via email. If you don’t respond, email may also threaten to disable your account, but you shouldn’t believe such threats. If you receive an email, take the following action:
- Do not click on any link in the email: They may have a virus that can damage your computer. Even if the links come from a legitimate company, don’t trust them as they could lead to a fraudulent website.
- Do not respond to emails:Instead, forward the email to the Federal Trade Commission at Spam@uce.gov.
- If you believe the email is genuine, contact the company on your statement or using the phone number listed in the phone book.
Notify the customer service representative of the email and ask if your account has been compromised. You can contact the company directly by typing your website address in your browser’s address bar; never use the link in the email.
If you clicked on any links in phishing emails or provided requested personal information, contact your bank directly to notify them and request fraud alerts, new credit cards, or updated passwords.
Vishing
Similar to phishing, Vishing scammers try to get you to provide their personal information, but instead of using email, they use phone calls. You may be instructed to call a number to verify your account or reactivate your debit or credit card. If you receive one of these calls, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center. (http://www.ic3.gov/complaint/default.aspx)
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