Abney Associates Hong Kong Cybercrime Reports: Internet Fraud Protection

abney associates hong kong cybercrime reports
 Internet fraud is the most common crime affecting consumers online. The Internet is a convenient place for fraudsters to engage in fraudulent activities. Here are some of the ways you can prevent yourself from being a victim of Internet fraud: 
1) Protect your personal information - Do not give away your personal or banking information (social security number, credit card number) unless you are actually buying something. Provide your social security number only when you are applying for credit or employment and never provide it in response to an unsolicited email. Be careful while providing your personal details to avoid falling victim to identity theft/fraud. 
2) Be careful with unsolicited emails - Never respond to emails you receive from an unknown sender. Responding to such emails may serve to verify that yours is a valid email address which can result in more unwanted email or even identity theft. 
3) Verify the seller's existence : If you are purchasing items online from auction sites like eBay, check out the particular company at the local consumer protection agency and Better Business Bureau to find out whether the company actually exists and whether complaints have been made. Obtain a physical address and phone number to contact the seller if possible. 
4) Method of payment : Make sure you understand the method of payment that the seller accepts and how and where the buyer is to send the payment. If you're making an online payment, make sure the site is secured (uses https and has a signed security certificate). 
5) Inquire about returns and warranty policies - Ask the seller when your item will be delivered. Also, ask if there is any warranty or if you can exchange the merchandise if there is a problem. 
6) Find out if the shipping and handling charges are included in the price or if you must pay extra. 
7) Avoid falling for high pressure sales - Fraudsters often demand that you act immediately in response to an offer. Take enough time to study the transaction before purchasing. 
8) Avoid wire transfer payments - Most of these transactions are fraudulent. 9) Pay by credit card - Credit cards are the best and the safest way to pay for online purchases. If you pay by credit card and if any problem arises you can dispute the charges. Do not give away your credit card number via email. 
10) Make yourself aware of common scams and fraud that take place online abney associates hong kong cybercrime reports