They say that with many people turning to the internet at this time of year, to buy presents, book tickets and send electronic Christmas cards, they ‘want to make life as difficult as possible for cyber fraudsters’.
See the full advice here
As a result, the Council have shared the City of London Police’s ’12 online frauds of Christmas’ campaign on their website.
Speaking about the dangers consumers face online at this time of year, the organisation warned: ‘What many do not realise is the hidden threat we now face from criminals online.
‘They are targeting internet shoppers with scams which, on the surface promise to save them time and money, but in reality only deliver festive heartache and misery.
‘Make sure you have adequate anti-virus software, which is regularly updated, that will enable your computer to flag any untrustworthy sites.’
Online shopping fraud
- Use online retailers/brands you are aware of and trust. For major brands always go to the official website for list of authorised sellers.
- Check the delivery, insurance, warranty and returns policy.
Christmas e-cards
- If you receive an anonymous e-card, better to play it safe and delete the email as it could be infected.
- If you believe your electronic device has been infected, switch it off and disconnect from the internet to prevent further information being stolen.
Online auctions
- Avoid transferring money direct to a seller.
- Research the seller before you bid. If available, check their feedback but be mindful this can also be falsified.
- Be cautious when buying from sellers abroad or private individuals. If you are in any doubt, back out of the sale.
Booking holidays
- Always pay with a credit card; if they dont accept dont buy from them.
- Use companies that are ABTA or ATOL protected.
- Research the internet and consider the reviews of the company/person you wish to use before booking your trip.
Mobile malware/malicious apps
- Only download apps from official app stores like Google Play and Apple Store and always check reviews and ratings as well as developer information before downloading a new app.
- Do not click on links in emails from unknown sources or visit suspicious websites on your new devices.
Money transfers
- Never send a money transfer for online purchases.
- Wait the six or seven working days its takes for a cheque to clear before transferring any money or sending/mailing any goods.
- Never send money in advance to obtain a loan or credit card or to pay for processing fee on lottery or prize winnings.
- Never provide your banking information to people or businesses you do not know.
Social media scams
- Do not have too much personal information on social media accounts, which could allow your bank accounts to be compromised.
- Be wary of installing add-ons to your internet browser as some can be used to extract personal and financial information from your search history.
- If you click on a social media advert do the necessary checks before buying anything from the website you land on.
