The majority of us all now live in an age that is driven by online activity, pretty much everything we do now has some form of online connotation. We check the weather, we get directions and we can even find out what type of vegetable we would be. The internet is beneficial to us in so many different ways but unfortunately it can also be extremely dangerous. Fraudsters and criminals can scam and rob us in more ways than ever before because of this. It is so important to be careful online to protect yourself and like secure channels become aware to the dangers that are around us. Below I have included some of the dangers that the internet can bring to your life.
Identity Theft
Identity theft is something that we have all heard of or even seen on the news or TV. We no longer live in a world where identity theft is gained from old bank statements or letters that have been thrown out in the trash. All of us that use the internet have an online footprint, your online footprint can consist of your personal information, you card details and your address. Fraudsters will do anything in their power to gain access to this information. People always tend to worry about online transactions without their knowledge but even your address can be used to apply for car insurance for example. Great ways to try and avoid this is by refraining from using debatable websites, having a good antivirus in place and to use public WIFI‘s etc with extreme caution.
Fraud
Potential fraud is something that makes everyone feel uneasy. It is a sad fact that fraud is happening more and more due to not using the internet with precaution. If you were walking down the street you would never give your personal information to a stranger, so why do it online? Always make sure you read all conditions before agreeing access to your personal info online. Don’t be taken advantage of.
Emails
One of the main ways online fraudsters can trick you is via your email account. I guarantee you would have all received questionable emails. Fraudsters are always evolving when it comes to sending you emails to access your personal information. They will try to seem recognizable by using a famous companies logo to entice you. It is very rare that a top company will contact you via email without your permission when signing up. If you see an email from Apple for example that you are not sure of, contact them via live chat or telephone to question its authenticity. A scam email will usually direct you to an attachment, that if you click welcomes fraudsters to your information. Even if there is no attachment to click the emails also may consist of a direct request for your information. Be careful, do not allow yourself to fall victim to online criminal activity!
