Internet Scams and Identity Theft

You’ve heard the old adage, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Well, this is particularly good advice when it comes to steering clear of Internet scams. Always exercise caution and healthy skepticism when making a transaction online. 

 

Phishing. One of the most popular Internet scams is referred to as “phishing.” Phishing is when criminals imitate legitimate companies in order to obtain personal information. The “phisher” will send out millions of emails asking users to verify their account information by providing important personal information. The three most common ways people fall prey to this is by responding with a return email, filling out an email form, or clicking on a website “link” that actually leads to the phisher’s website. 

 

Spoofing. Another popular Internet scam is called “spoofing.” Spoofing is occurs when an individual receives an email that appears to have come from somewhere other than where it actually did. Criminals use spoofing to secure personal and financial information in order to commit credit card fraud.

 

Catching. In order to speed up you Internet experience, your computer keeps a trail of where you have been. Unfortunately, if you are using a public computer or even a friend’s computer, you may be leaving personal information only a few keystrokes away.

 

Keeping your computer safe. There are several ways to protect your computer from hackers and viruses. First, purchase anti-virus software. This will help keep your system from being damaged or ruined by a virus, worm, or a Trojan horse. Second, always keep your operating system updated. As soon as vulnerabilities are found, the system vendors make “patches” to fix them, so you should always download the new updates they have. Third, install a firewall to protect yourself from those who wish to do you harm. Fourth,exercise caution when using wireless networks. And lastly, beware of file sharing programs. You may be sharing things that you didn’t intend to.