INTERNET FRAUD
INTERNET FRAUD
Avoiding trouble
Advice from experts for Internet users to avoid becoming victims of online fraud:
Be suspicious of any e-mail or pop-up message asking for personal financial information. Such messages easily can be forged. Legitimate companies do not ask for such information. Do not click any Web links in such messages, which can be disguised. If you need to contact your bank, call them or open a new Web browser window and manually type its Internet address. No matter how upsetting or exciting the statements in the e-mail may be, there is always enough time to check out the information more closely, the Justice Department advises.
Avoid filling out forms in e-mails that ask for personal financial information.
Check your financial statements as soon as you receive them. Regularly log into your online accounts at least monthly. If you see anything suspicious, contact your bank immediately.
Send copies of suspicious e-mails to the Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov and to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@antiphishing.com. Send the entire original e-mail with its original header information intact to help investigators trace the thieves.
Use anti-virus software and a firewall, and keep them up to date. Some phishing e-mails contain software that can harm your computer or track your activities on the Internet without your knowledge. Ensure your Web browser software is up to date and all necessary security patches applied.
If you already are a victim, file a complaint with the FTC by visiting its Web site -- www.ftc.gov -- or call 1-877-FTC-HELP. The FTC also operates a Web site with information about identity theft -- www.consumer.gov/idtheft.