Federal Agency Warns Against Common Internet Fraud Scams

Cyber criminals are coming up with more and more sophisticated ways to steal your identity, your personal information and your money. To help protect yourself against these threats, here is a list of the top internet frauds from the Federal Trade Commission.

• Identity Theft is the illegal use of someone else’s personal information in order to obtain money or credit. How will you know if you’ve been a victim of identity theft? You might get bills for things or services you did not purchase. Your bank account might have withdrawals you didn’t expect. Or you may see unauthorized charges on your credit cards.
• Phishing attacks use email or malicious websites (clicking on a link) to collect personal and financial information or infect your machine with malware and viruses. Cybercriminals attempt to lure people in and get you to click on a link or open an attachment. The email they send can look just like it comes from a real financial institution, e-commerce site, government agency, or any other service or business.
• Imposter Scams happen when you receive an email or call seemingly from a government official, family member, or friend requesting that you wire them money to pay taxes or fees, or to help someone you care about.
• “You’ve Won” Scams occur when you get an email telling you that you have won a prize, lottery, or sweepstakes. Though the person seems excited for you to collect your winnings, they then tell you there is a fee or tax to pay for the prize and request your credit card or bank account information.

Source: U.S Department of Homeland Security