Be Aware ! Top 5 Scams on the Net.
2005-04-14 13:39:21
1: Auction FraudPlace a bid on eBay and win; but your goods never turn up; you get a fake version of what you ordered; or you simply get sent a web link to a site offering money off the product. Helpful...
2: Phishing
As Neowin reported earlier today, the number of people being caught out by phishing e-mails - messages pretending to be from their bank or another agency and asking for their details - has gone through the roof. The sites look real - but they're completely fake.
3: Nigerian 419
An old favourite at number three. A message arrives from a mysterious African, telling you he'd love to split millions of dollars with you, if only he could get it out of the country - and can you help? Shame the money doesn't exist, really...
4: Postal Forwarding/Reshipping
Give your address to some "offshore company". Let them get stuff sent to you and ship it on - and they'll pay you, too. Unfortunately, the goods are bought using stolen credit cards, making it likely the feds will pay you a visit - and those nice people will probably steal your money as well.
5: Congrulations, You've Won!
No, you haven't. That random e-mail telling you you got an iPod, Xbox, or plasma telly? Couldn't be more fake. They'll ask for your card number and PIN so they can cover shipping costs - then go on a spending spree. If you're lucky, they might steal your identity too.