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.
