There are many types of people who have different, peculiar objectives in using the internet. Some are good and go about on their own, some are not so good. To say that there are bad people on the internet is immensely understated. Online fraud is one of the many negativities that unsafe internet browsing can bring, and is growing rampant nowadays. Keep yourself safe from online fraud.
Do not open suspicious emails.
Suspicious emails may vary in content and presentation. They can in the form of a click-bait saying you won something that you did not even sign up for, like an automated raffle, or if the email is asking for your security details to “protect” your computer.
Even if these emails come from seemingly legit sources, take note that no company would ask for your security details through email. Ignore and delete these.
Avoid clicking unknown links.
Unpopular and unknown links may be a source of malware that can harm your computer and solicit private information from your computer. These can happen when you research something or a topic that have little results, or if you click on click-bait links.
Use strong passwords.
Online fraud often happens when scammers are able to easily decipher your account details and passwords.
This is why, when registering to new accounts or changing passwords, you are suggested to create a strong, alpha-numeric combination to ensure that your account stays safe and to avoid identity theft.
Avoid opening secured accounts in public WiFi.
Public Wi-Fi is only good as far as random browsing and researching. When it comes to bank accounts, emails, and social media accounts, using public WiFi is strongly discouraged because your device’s IP address can be traced and your account details can be deciphered. Very dangerous.
Keep a secured network.
When you set up a WiFi network at home, put a strong password, and avoid giving it out, especially to neighbors. WiFi does not only give access to your network but also to your IP address and computer where your details can be taken.
Be vigilant of websites that ask for important details.
Registering to social media sites and other accounts will mostly require you to enter your name, username, password, and date of birth. Other than that, and unless absolutely necessary, secured sites will not ask for private details such as credit card information and bank account details.
Keep your internet security up to date.
Anti-virus and internet security applications are a lot of help to your computer and identity’s safety. Keep your internet security up to date so that it can always ward off new malware and possible security breaches that can lead to identity theft and fraud.
Despite the many people the world wide web has helped, there are yet many more who had bad experiences. Not only did it destroy their online privacy, but it has also very well crept into their bank accounts, credit cards, and identity. Be on a cautious lookout for these scammers and keep your internet browsing safe always.
