Millions of online shoppers are victims of cybercrime each year and during the Christmas buildup, this number increases dramatically . Consumer losses from online scams exceeded $1 billion last year, which is why we have put together 5 tips to help prevent online fraud this Christmas.
The Internet has become one of the most widely used areas for fraud, and hackers are developing increasingly sophisticated hacking techniques. Since all personal information provided online can be utilised by scammers to commit online fraud, it’s crucial for consumers to only complete financial transactions over trustworthy, secure wireless networks.
Only this week, when selling an item on Facebook marketplace, I was faced with numerous attempts at trying to purchase a product by deceit. Being savvy online anyway, you still have to be extra careful to look out for the signs of scammers.
Facebook online scam
This particular scam happened when I was selling an iPhone on Facebook Marketplace. As soon as it went live, I had several messages asking questions about the item, that were already answered in the description. They would then ask where I was located (remember to not give out your full details until you can 100% trust the buyer). Once I give them the town for the location, they then state that they can’t get to you and suggest you post it.
The Heart Strings
They will usually follow up with saying it’s for their sons birthday or Christmas present and they will pay over the odds for the inconvenience and shipping.
If you do accept what they’re offering they will often offer to pay in advance via bank transfer and beg for your trust in sending the item.
Once you send the item, they will proceed with a chargeback on the amount and you lose both.
Tips to avoid online scams
- Update the software on your desktops and mobile devices. The best protection against viruses, malware, and online scams is to use the most recent versions of your operating system, web browser, and security software. Activate automatic updates to get the most recent fixes as soon as they are released.
- Create secure passwords. A strong password consists of a minimum of eight characters, a combination of upper- and lowercase letters, digits, and special characters.
- Be wary of phishing scams. Phishing scams deceive users into revealing confidential account or login information by using phoney emails and websites. Never open any attachments or pop-up windows from sites you are unfamiliar with or click any links
- Buy carefully. Make sure the website uses secure technologies before making an online purchase. Check sure the website address starts with https when you are on the checkout page. Additionally, look to see if the page bears the little locked padlock sign.
- Review the privacy policies of the website. Privacy rules explain how the website safeguards the personal data it gathers, despite being lengthy and complicated. Think about conducting business somewhere else if you can’t read or comprehend a website’s privacy statement.
At Fusion Creative Birmingham, we’re not just about Graphic Design and Website Design, we also offer IT services and advice to our clients and we often get sent emails from clients to check for their peace of mind. If you do receive any suspicious emails or calls that you are not sure of, please don’t hesitate to contact us to check it out for you.
Together we will help stop these online scams.
