The Internet can be a very useful place but it also exposes you to online fraud. How do you stay safe online? Let’s consider some of the dangers and ways to avoid them.
Online Phishing and How It Relates to Internet Identity Theft
Phishing refers to e-mails from seemingly reputable sites that request personal, financial and sensitive information. The e-mail messages, pop-up windows and the Web sites seem legitimate enough that unsuspecting people turn over their credit card numbers, passwords, account numbers and other personal information.
Here are a few phrases that might tip you off that you’re being phished:
- Verify your account: Legitimate businesses do not ask you to send passwords, login names, Social Security numbers, or other personal information by e-mail.
- If you don't respond within 48 hours, your account will be closed: These messages often convey a sense of urgency so that you’re tempted to answer immediately.
- Dear Valued Customer: Most legitimate companies will address you by name.
- Click the link below to gain access to your account: Reputable businesses don’t make anyone’s account available so readily.
Phone and VoIP Phishing and Preventing Identity Fraud
Now, there's a whole new spin on phishing. Instead of being directed to a Web page, you could be prompted to call a customer support number where a person waits to take your personal data, steal your identity and access your account. This scam works with fax or VoIP numbers, too.
Some ways to avoid being phone phished:
- Be suspicious of all unsolicited e-mail and don’t automatically click on links.
- If you’re tempted to respond, use the URL, not a link, to go to the site and check it out first.
- Keep up to date on the latest identity-theft scams.
- Check your e-mail for telltale phrases, bad grammar and typos and unknown Web sites or unusual Web addresses.
- Report any suspicious e-mail to the FBI, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG).
Protect Yourself from Internet Identity Theft and Shop Online Safely
Naturally, you want to make sure that no one steals your credit card number - or your identity - when you shop online. Here are some tips to protect your private data:
- Double-check that the connection is secure before you make any purchases. The http: at the beginning of the URL indicates a secured site and a small lock should be displayed in the right corner of your monitor.
- Use a different and complex password for each different site.
- Use credit cards. They limit the amount you can lose and provide a grace period.
Online Fraud Victims: What to Do
If you think you're a victim of online fraud, immediately follow these steps:
- File a report with your local police department.
- Place a fraud alert on your credit reports.
