Do more to prevent fraud.
Internet fraud is one of the most popular and widespread forms of cybercrime, with the Internet used increasingly to steal the identities and financial information of unsuspecting users. Fraudsters use unsolicited email messages, as well as websites, social networks, chat rooms and message boards, in order to get access to the information they need.
Today, it is easy for criminals to create websites that look professional and generate emails that appear to be from legitimate sources. These websites and emails may try to get you to provide private information that could be used to steal your identity, or trick you into paying them money.
There are definite patterns to watch out for, and armed with technical advice and common sense, it’s possible to prevent internet fraud from happening to you. The following are a few ways you can protect yourself against email and internet scams:
- Check your bank statements: It’s easier than ever for fraudsters to go after bank details thanks to online banking; but, it’s also easier for users to check bank statements now that every detail is available at the touch of a button.
- Be careful when opening attachments: Think carefully before opening email attachments, especially when these come from senders that you don’t know.
- Keep your operating system (OS) and software up-to-date: This doesn’t just apply to your Internet protection software though; most software manufacturers, including your OS provider, regularly release security patches that make it more difficult for fraudsters to get hold of your details.
- Use a strong password: Choosing a strong password for all services you use (preferably a different password for each service) will make it harder for thieves to gain access to your details.
- Read the website’s privacy policy: If you are asked to enter any confidential or personal data, take a look at the site’s policy. If you do not trust the site, do not enter any details.
- Don’t give away your PIN code: Your bank will never ask you for your PIN code – over the phone, via email, or on the website.
- Open websites in new browser windows before entering personal details: Don’t enter any personal information if you’ve arrived on a website from an external link or pop-up ad, even on a real site.
- Use encrypted sites where possible: If the site is preceded by “https,” this is an indication that it has been independently verified and is a secure site. A padlock symbol will also be displayed in the address bar, which means that any log-in or payment processes on the site are secure.
- Check for company email addresses: Banks do not correspond with their customers from email addresses provided by gmail.com, yahoo, etc. – it’s safer to avoid sending personal details via email at all if you can avoid it.
- Destroy financial data when throwing it away: Ensure that you destroy any personal information before throwing it away by shredding bank statements and expired cards.
Reggie Novak is a Senior Manager in the Audit and Accounting Services Group. As a Certified Fraud Examiner, Mr. Novak can assist you with prevention services including recommending internal controls and other measures to be implemented to prevent theft or misappropriation. If fraud is suspected he can investigate and present his findings and recommendations. Contact Reggie Novak at 216.831.7171 or rnovak@cp-advisors.com for more information.
You may also be interested in:
Donations and Tax Deductions
© 2015
