Internet Money Scams

          In today’s world of automated information exchange by computer, it is important that you take certain steps to protect yourself from internet and e-mail scams that have taken many people for thousands of dollars. Scam artists and Internet criminals devise e-mails and Internet scams that offer one thing but deliver another. There are some rules to follow to protect yourself from being an Internet e-mail victim.

1)      Never, under any circumstance, enter your bank account or credit card numbers in response to an unsolicited message or to someone or some entity that you are not familiar with. A good rule of thumb: If you did not initiate the financial transaction be wary of any request for personal financial information.

2)      Never respond to e-mails that promise a large sum of money for just “simply helping transfer money from an overseas account”, such as Africa, Brazil, etc. These criminals will request a bank account number so that they can “make a substantial deposit” in your account, when in reality they are only interested in a quick withdrawal.

3)      Never click on a link to “update your account” with any financial institution. If the bank you do business with needs something, they can contact you by name and then you can contact them directly to make sure you know whom you are communicating with.

Remember that no one can steal money from your account if they don’t have the number! Stay safe and keep your personal account information personal!

Corporal Sam Seamans