Monday, December 20, 2010

Holiday Season: Top Business Time for Cybercriminals - - Be Extra Cautious of Online Scams, Identity Theft And Cybercrime

The holiday season is a peak time for identity theft and internet fraud. Reportedly the number of online scams, incidents of identity theft and cybercrime has increased tremendously in this holiday season.  

 

US Postal Service officials say, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."  If you receive a check for a large sum of money for no apparent reason, if you are guaranteed financial success or promised unusually high returns for participation, reports say it is likely a fraud attempt. 

Another alert sign is high pressure or pressure to make a spontaneous decision.  Many online scams require an initial investment.  If you are dealing with a work-at-home job offer or an internet business, check it out with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). 

Don't allow internet fraudsters to catch you on the internet by taking a few extra measures.  Instead of clicking a link inside an email to visit a website, visit the website from your browser address line.  Also, remember your bank or credit card company will not call or email you for your account number. 

If you receive something suspicious online or in the mail, most services ask that you report it to their inspection department.  If you have encountered online fraud, contact the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint.  

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