Be wise when using the internet

Tom Muleya Fraud Insight

Human life has now become digital. The advent and subsequent development of technology has fast changed our lives into technological beings. We can control some activities at our homes and Business places remotely. Since cyberspace has dominated every facet of human life, bringing new opportunities, possibilities, and convenience to both individuals and the corporate world, it is apparent to protect self on the internet. As we ride high on cyberspace, we should always be mindful that cyberspace has brought with it some evil that is cybercrime.

The list of cybercrime scams or frauds on the internet is very big. Indicated below are some forms of scams or frauds that are committed on cyberspace or through the internet;

Identity theft and fraud. This is where by cyber criminals wrongfully obtain and use someone else’s personal data in some way that involves fraud and deception, typically for monetary gain.

Auction and retail schemes online. They promise high value items, induce their victims to send money. After money has been paid, nothing is delivered or only items which are far less valuable are delivered.

Mobile scams. These are fraudulent schemes which promise victims that they will win big prices weekly or monthly, once they participate. Invitations are sent on cellphones and purport to be from cellular services providers.

Some scams include online investment schemes online, credit card offers, the pyramid schemes, lottery scams, market manipulation schemes,inheritance money offers and theft of intellectual property.

Cybercrime is a reality among us and we should do something about it daily to minimise its effects. Considering the threats posed by cyber criminals, the following general tips will go a long way to ensure your safety and protection on the internet.

Always bear in mind that the internet is insecure. The internet is an open system, has no inherent guarantee of identity, has no governing body, has no software standards and has many unsecured sites. So whenever you transact on the internet, you should exercise extreme care. The moment you log onto the internet, you are already exposed to risk.
Do not buy or sign up on unsecured sites. You need thorough prior understanding of the privacy policy of the company.
Do not reply to a link in a spam email that threatens to remove you from their mailing list. For example: Dear customer. According to terms of service, you will have to confirm your email by following link or your account will be suspended within 24 hours for security reasons. Other messages would read like this; dear valued customer. Most legitimate companies should address you by first or last name; click the link below to gain access to your account.
Delete an email if you are not sure where it came from. This is very safe and immediately disconnects you from the potential threat.
Avoid disclosing your personal details/data to companies you are unfamiliar with on the internet. Disclosing particulars has led many people to fall prey to cyber criminals.
Be wary of rogue traders on internet. These con artists are notorious for advertising goods that don’t exist, making untrue statements about the products they are selling, sending different goods in place of the ones advertised and not delivering anything at all.
When conducting an online business transaction, avoid or minimise using a public internet cafe.
Regularly change your password coupled with using passwords that are too difficult to guess preferably long passwords.
Always sign out your account once you finish your business on the internet. Leaving your account open enables easy access for hackers and identity thieves.
If anything looks suspicious on the internet, that probably means it is. Never continue transacting.

Get empowered by Fraud insight and be part of a solution to fraud scams. Watch out for the next issue involving Ponzi Schemes or Fraudulent money schemes.

For your feedback, WhatsApp line: 0772 764 043, or e-mail:[email protected]. Tom Muleya is a Detective Assistant Inspector working under the Criminal Investigations Department. Harare.