Tips for Safe Internet Browsing
Nowadays, the use of digital channels is essential, as for most of us it is a daily process. Especially in this crucial time we are going through with the emergence of the CoVid19 pandemic, the use of the internet has increased rapidly. For this reason, browsing the internet and making phone calls safely is an important priority.
Therefore, as widespread use carries risks, it is important to know that a fertile ground for cyber fraud on the internet is being created. By fraud we mean the spread of malware that steal sensitive personal data or security codes via e-mail, short text messages (sms), fake e-shops, e-shops networks (social media) and other methods of deception (phishing).
Common internet deception tactics:
- Fraud via e-mail, sms, phone calls
- Fake e-shops for buying products
- Misleading messages on social media
E-mails, which include plausible bank and business logos, urgent requests via text messages, may contain phishing links or mislead us into disclosing personal information by spoofing the name or heading of the email address ( domain name). Also, phone calls from unknown international numbers may be used as a malware or ransomware spread tool.
What should I do in order to avoid being deceived?
- Check the sender's email and SMS address and do not open links from unreliable or unknown senders.
- Check for spelling mistakes, lack of details and information from the sender.
- Check international numbers, as calling them may incur excessive charges.
- Never disclose your personal and financial information, security codes (username, password, etc.).
Shopping through e-shops is an alternative way of buying products and services. Under current European Union legislation, the consumer is entitled to receive clear and comprehensible information from the trader before purchasing any product.
Therefore, before making a purchase:
- Make sure there is a secure data transmission protocol in the web address bar (SSL, padlock).
- Verify complete business details (VAT number, address, contact details, account number).
- Avoid overly enticing prices and offers that appear compared with the competition. These offers usually appear in spam or pop-ups.
- Consider the right of withdrawal, the features of the product, its final price or any additional charge.
- Never reveal your pin and passwords. The pin is used only in ATMs and points of sale such as e.g. commercial shops.
- Select the order confirmation and sending via e-mail and save the payment document.
- When receiving the product, videotape the process of opening the package, using it as an evidence in case of defect.
Social media have created a public space where everyone can express himself freely and communicate with third parties and businesses.
- Create strong credentials with unique passwords on your accounts.
- Limit the number of people, whom your content is visible to, by protecting your information
- Use social media responsibly, as your posts are published.
- Treat with suspicion messages from strangers who show erotic interest
Install the necessary updates and a reliable security solution (antivirus) on your device's operating system and save backups, recognizing the degree of danger.