Once you
open an unverified email or click a link, you may come across warnings that
your account is compromised and you need to confirm your identity. The real
picture is very different. This is simply an online scammer who is trying to
carry out an unauthorized transaction or data breach. Scammers phishing for
your personal details are out to get your money or steal your identity. You also need to be wary of email and text
messages that ask for confirmation or personal information and are not from
legit companies or organizations. Messages may be from companies or banks you
do business with. Another sign to watch out for the scam is that they will
threaten to close your account or take another action if no response is given.
The aim of the scammer is to either steal your identity or run up bills.
- Steps to Report an Online Scam
The FTC
firstly cautions users to try trusted security software and update it on an
automatic basis. Additionally, computer security practices and systems must be
in place. FTC also cautions that emailing personal or financial information is
not acceptable, because this is not a secure method of passing personal data.
Another precaution you need to take is to type the web address and check if
signals are secure on the site, if you are entering information on a website.
Another thing you need to be cautious about is whether the URL begins with
https (s is for secure). Report an online scam if you see these suspicious signs.
But some scammers have even forged security
icons. This is why you need to review statements of the bank account or the
credit card to assess unauthorized charges. If the statement is late by more
than some days, confirm the billing address and account balance by other means.
Don't open attachments send by others and download files from emails that are
from unknown sources. Files contain virus or malware that can weaken your
system or key logger software that records keystrokes and bank account details.
The phishing email should be forwarded to spam@ucedotgov and the
report needs to be made to the company, bank or organization replicated in the
email. You need to report an online scam and ensure that the spammer is
apprehended in time.
For
example, if the fake FTC email is in your inbox, forward it to the Federal
Trade Commission. Phishing emails can also be sent to anti phishing working
group comprising law enforcement officials, financial agencies, security
vendors and internet service providers.
You also need to file a report with the FTC at www.ftc.gov/complaint. The Identity theft website of the Federal Trade Commission is also
the ideal place to report victims of identity theft. Prevent criminals from
stealing your personal information, by ensuring you report an online scam to
the FTC. The FTC is created for the regulation of business practices and
detection of individual as well as business frauds.
Conclusion
Report an
online scam if you want to see justice done. The criminal is oriented towards
creating the right atmosphere to steal your identity and make off with your
money. Report an online scam because there is every chance that you can secure
the best outcomes, when it comes to protecting yourself and others from the
clutches of the scammers.
