An increase in online fraud is expected
There was an increase in online fraud during the first lockdown, and there are fears of an increase in online fraud during the run up to Christmas. Fraudsters are especially keen to target people who are new to online shopping. Barclays has revealed that fraud attempts are up by two thirds.
Read our online shopping page for ways of staying safe from online fraud. This article looks at the most common tactics used by fraudsters.
Phishing is an attempt to gain information such as bank or card details, passwords etc.usually by email, although it could also be by text messages or instant messaging.
Although there is now a greater awareness of email fraud and the proportion of people who fall for it is low, it is still common because large numbers of emails can be sent out at very little cost.
Some fraudulent messages will contain links and attachments containing malware. Sometimes an online greeting card, supposedly from someone you know, can infect a computer if downloaded..
Some email links may lead to fake websites which may ask for login details or bank details.
Common examples to be wary of include cancelled account / payment declined messages, fake charities, HMRC threatening action, winning a lottery (that you didn’t enter), working from home scams, fake auctions, guaranteed loans or credit card approvals, fake surveys, advance fee scams (paying a small amount in the expectation of a greater reward) and of course untrustworthy websites.
Social media
Many people share information such as home addresses and phone numbers on social media. Fraudsters can collect information about you which can be used in more targeted scams. “Spear phishing” is where the fraudster knows some of your personal details, and uses them to appear to be more trustworthy. It is worth checking your privacy settings to minimise the risk.
Scams on social media sites include such things as the “see who’s viewed your profile” and other services, which ask for your details.
It is easy to set up a fake account or page on social media, so beware of friend requests from people you don’t know and be cautious of services offered, for example on marketplace pages.
Targeting older people
Older people are often seen as more vulnerable to fraud. Scams include approaches offering investments, insurance and health / pharmacy products.
Scams claiming to be from a grandchild in desperate need of funds quickly are said to have a 2% success rate!
In conclusion
It is widely believed that internet criminals are mainly from Africa, especially |Nigeria. In fact over 60% originate in the USA and more than 15% from the UK.
Take care about clicking on links and be suspicious of messages from people that you don’t know and you should be able to stay safe.
