Tips for protecting against online fraud
– Protect your passwords and change them regularly
– Install anti-virus, anti-spyware and Internet firewall tools from trusted retailers or suppliers
– Be wary of downloading free files, programs, software or screen savers and avoid unsolicited messages
– Never send personal and/or financial information by e-mail
– Clear your cache after visiting secure sites so nobody else can view any confidential information you may have transmitted
– Be cautious when using free wireless Internet connections in public places. Always check with the staff first to make sure you are connecting to their wireless network.
– Check your financial and credit card statements regularly.
— Canadian Bankers Association
DURHAM — It’s not the kind of fishing that involves hooks or worms.
Durham police are urging local residents to get smart about “phishing” as part of Fraud Prevention Month in March.
Phishing sees fraudsters snatch personal information by pretending to be from a bank or other trusted organization, or by posing as a relative in trouble.
Durham Regional Police Sergeant Jeff Caplan says it’s fast becoming the most common type of fraud police see.
“We’re seeing more and more people getting stung by variations on phishing even though it’s something we have been warning the public about,” he says.
One common example is a “grandparent” scam, which sees perpetrators target seniors by pretending to be a grandchild or relative in trouble and asking for money to be sent.
“If you get a call or e-mail from someone purporting to be a relative, always take a minute or two and try to contact that person. Or, phone someone who knows them to confirm that it’s legitimate,” Sgt. Caplan said.
Another recent example of phishing in Durham saw fraudsters cold call people’s homes and claim to be from a computer firm.
Homeowners were told their home computer had a software problem and were directed to a website which allowed the suspect to gain access to their computer — and potentially their personal information.
Sgt. Caplan estimates only 10 to 20 per cent of fraud cases in Durham are reported, often because victims are embarrassed.
Seniors especially are hesitant to admit they’ve been conned, because they worry it could compromise their independence.
His best tip for guarding against phishing is to never provide personal information via e-mail.
“A bank will never ask for your bank card number or financial information through an e-mail, it won’t happen,” he said.
Other fraud fighting tips from DRPS include covering your PIN number when using a bank machine or keypad and only carrying the documents you need on a daily basis, which means no SIN card or passport in your wallet.
In 2011, the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre received 9,349 complaints from Canadians. The 2,119 people who were identified as victims lost a total of about $447,000.
Reporter Jillian Follert can be found on Twitter @JillianFollert and on Facebook by searching Jillian Follert