Safe And Secure, What you need to know.
In an effort to protect online buyers, we have dedicated this page to provide you with information to protect yourself from hackers, fraud, and various other problems that can occur while using the internet. From What to watch out for when shopping online to protecting yourself from Fraud. As with any information, be sure that the suggestions we provide are suitable for your situation. Always create a restore point on your computer before you make any changes.
With all the information out there about fraud and identity theft, we hope to bring you as much information as we can to aid you and perhaps ease the worry about using the internet for online shopping. Hopefully we can help you with other information for online problems with searching the internet and email viruses. Some basic information is in the box below and you'll find more information on our navigation in the left column.
Starting with the basics.
Browsers.
Upgrade your browser to the newest version. It's free. You'll find the latest version here. Many hackers and viruses get into your computer through your web browser. Internet Explorer seems to have the most trouble, but then over 80% of us use this browser. Firefox has been touted as the safest browser, but as it's use becomes greater, the bad guys will begin to tap into it as well.Operating Systems.
If you can, get the newest operating system that your computer can handle, or consider buying a new computer with the newest operating system. Prices have come down. In either case be sure to get the latest update to your operating system. XP users should have installed sp2 update. This update is lengthy, but you can order it free from Microsoft. Requirements for upgrade to XP home.
Virus Protection.
By all means get a current version of virus software. Get McAfee VirusScan. Click here.
Signs of Online Fraud
There are many signs that point to online fraud and scams. By learning and paying attention to these signs you can avoid becoming a victim. To protect your personal information, always read a Web site's privacy policy.- Flashy Advertising
- this type of advertising is typically seen in emails and pop up banner ads and attempts to blind consumers to the scam.
- High Pressure Sales
- companies who claim they have limited availability or pressure you for an immediate response is a good indication of online fraud.
- Requests for Cash Payments via Courier or Overnight Delivery
- typically a sign that the seller wished to bypass postal fraud laws.
- Nothing is Ever FREE! These companies typically request money later or for you to pay an up front fee.
- The Internet has provided another venue for con artists to pitch get rich quick schemes at a large audience, pitching that large sums of money can be made with little time and no effort through Internet related businesses. The only winner in these situations is the con artist.
The navigation on the left contains information on various subjects that you may want to know about. We offer links to other sights that may be of interest to you. If you use your computer and connect to the web, as you must be doing if you are reading this, these subjects will help you in trying to be safe. Hackers and con artists use web sites and email to gain your identity, con you out of your money, and perform malicious acts upon your computer.