Recent events (such as the alleged hacking that occurred at over 79 banks) might have you wondering what to do if you’ve been subject to something like Internet fraud. Who should you report Internet fraud to? How long will it take for an issue to be resolved? What is Internet fraud? How does it happen?
Put simply, Internet fraud and online scams are crimes. According to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) — a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C), funded in part by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) — Internet crime involves the use the internet such as websites, emails, or chat rooms for illegal activities. This can include false or fraudulent communications and fraudulent representation. Crimes may include computer hacking, non-delivery of goods or services, or false employment/business opportunities.
The Run Down
- Internet fraud is a crime.
- Scammers will use email, online advertising, even search engine results to try to trick you.
- The types of scams that are the most popular for Internet fraud include fake check scams, debt relief scams, and pay-in-advance credit scams.
- The U.S. Department of Justice has a system in place to help you report Internet fraud.
Scammers use email, online ads, pop-ups, and search results to trick you into sending them money and personal information. Following is a partial list of some topics that spammers will use in order to defraud you of your personal information or money.
- Work-at-Home Scams
- Weight Loss Claims
- Lotteries and Sweepstakes Scams
- Fake Check Scams
- Imposter Scams
- Mystery Shopper Scams
- Bogus Apartment Rentals
- Miracle Cures
- Debt Relief Scams
- Pay-in-Advance Credit Offers
- Investment Schemes
- The “Nigerian” Email Scam
If you or someone you know has been the victim of an online scam, you can report the Internet fraud to the IC3. What this organization does is thoroughly review and evaluate each complaint, referring it to at least one or more appropriate federal, state, local, or international law enforcement or regulatory agency.
In addition to reporting this activity to the IC3 for criminal investigation, you will also need to contact your bank or credit card issuer should your financial information be stolen. Contacting the IC3 doesn’t act as notification to your credit card company that you’re disputing unauthorized charges placed on your card, or that your credit card number may have been compromised.
The Takeaway
Internet fraud and online scams have been around since the advent of the Internet and scammers are becoming more and more sophisticated. As recent news stories have shown, even if you take all of the precautions recommended by experts and law enforcement to safeguard your personal information, hackers who cause security breaches at online vendors, banks, and other organizations may put your sensitive details at risk. If you have been the victim of Internet fraud, AmOne can help. Our knowledgeable associates are ready to guide you through the process of contacting the appropriate agencies and to help you through with reclaiming your financial identity. AmOne offers solutions; your call to us is free and we won’t try to sell you anything. Find out how to reach us and learn more about how AmOne can help you today.
