Internet

How to stop becoming a victim of online fraud

The threat of online fraud will always exist just as fraud in the real world. With the growing complexity of software and the ability for hackers to keep pace with anti fraud measures implemented by organisations to combat fraud, they are never too far behind.

Fraud can cost companies millions through loss of consumer trust as well as the fraud itself. When a fraud is committed it leads to a customer being siphoned out of money either from their accounts or credit cards.

However there are measures people can take to ensure they deal safely with organisations they are member or customer of:

Never disclose your password to anyone in an email or in a telephone conversation even they claim it is customer support of an organisation that you deal with. It is OK to provide such details if you initiate the call. Organisations will simply not ask you for password such details when dealing with routine matters. If they ask for such details over the phone it will be mentioned in their terms & conditions. Be sure to check that out first.

If you receive an email asking for personal information, do not disclose it. You should not be asked for such details via an email. Some of the fraudsters are very deceptive because they take on guise that gives the impression that it is a genuine email from an organisation that you know well. They are able to do this because it is quite easy to graphics and logos that make imitation quite easy.

Most good email accounts will allow you to mark contacts in the email address book. This allows you to know whether it is from someone that you can trust.

Check for misspellings and aggressive demands such as closure of your account unless you provide update your account details with personal information. Never five in to such aggression. The credit card or other or/and other personal details.

Always deal with legitimate and well-known companies and ensure they have adequate security measures in place.