Protecting Yourself from Online Scams

Online money scams are some of the fastest growing crimes in the world. Millions of dollars are lost each year by people falling for fake promises and “get rich quick” schemes. These scams make guarantees they never see through and prompt people like Michael S. Majeed Markham fraud investigator to try to make people aware of how they can protect themselves.

Some Online Scams to Watch For

 

One of the most proliferous of the online schemes is fake anti-virus software. Scammers create ads and emails that promise software that can search and eliminate viruses on your computer. But these programs actually create more problems than they cause.

When you download software from a scammer, that software will likely read and copy the files on your computer, sending personal and private information back to the scammers. Some of these programs can also track your financial information online, recording your account numbers, passwords and more.

 

You may also end up with a virus on your computer as well.

Similar schemes involve unsolicited phone calls from people claiming to be customer support or some other tech service. They offer to fix your computer or make it run faster but need to take control to do it. Or they may ask you to download some software to help them do the job. Invariably these actions lead to a loss of control of your computer, copied files, and the gathering of sensitive information.

How to Protect Yourself

Time and again, Michael S. Majeed Markham fraud investigator has advised his clients to be wary of whom they accept help from or to whom they give personal information. Your account information and computer access are things that should only be divulged to people you trust.

You should also watch for offers that sound too good to be true. Software that is promoted as incredibly cheap yet effective probably contains malignant software. You can research what you are downloading before you put it on your computer to protect yourself.

Take time to research any anti-virus software you are thinking of purchasing. There are actually a number of helpful communities online that are ready and willing to help you find anti-virus software that really works. Do not fall for the low prices and outrageous claims of anti-virus software that comes from an unknown source.

Always exercise caution when downloading anything from the internet. Not all of it is what it claims to be. A good tip to remember is that if you do not know who is sending you information, then you do not know their motivation and if they are trustworthy.

You should also be wary of unexpected phone calls from sources that claim to need private information or control of your computer. If you are not expecting a call related to technical services, then do not do what they ask you to do.

If you are the victim of online fraud, contact the authorities then consult with a professional like Michael S. Majeed Markham fraud investigator.

With his years of experience and expertise, he can see things in a light you may not be able to and help you get to the bottom of who is scamming you.