Fraudsters use a wide range of methods and it can be difficult to keep track of them all, so we’ve put together this handy list to help you:
1. Application Fraud Account Takeover
This refers to a fraudster applying for a new bank account or credit card in your name.
This refers to a fraudster applying for a new bank account or credit card in your name.
2. Mail non-receipt card fraud
When a card you have ordered isn't received, but is intercepted by thieves who then use your name fraudulently.
When a card you have ordered isn't received, but is intercepted by thieves who then use your name fraudulently.
3. ‘Phishing’ email fraud
Carried out by criminals who direct unsuspecting people to seemingly legitimate sites where they’re then asked to share their personal information.
Carried out by criminals who direct unsuspecting people to seemingly legitimate sites where they’re then asked to share their personal information.
4. Online Shopping Fraud
Anyone can set up a shop online and then take advantage of trusting shoppers, as they give over account information as well as address details and other personal information.
Anyone can set up a shop online and then take advantage of trusting shoppers, as they give over account information as well as address details and other personal information.
5. Keylogging
This is the practice of releasing undetectable software, known as spyware, onto your computer. This software can track what you type on your keyboard, which means that when you enter passwords or other private details a fraudster maybe able to follow what you’re doing.
This is the practice of releasing undetectable software, known as spyware, onto your computer. This software can track what you type on your keyboard, which means that when you enter passwords or other private details a fraudster maybe able to follow what you’re doing.
6. Scamming
Scammers are people who try to get you to invest in their scheme, only to disappear and offer you no payback for what you have given them - whether it be time, money or information. Sometimes these scams can string along the ‘victim’ for years with promises of future rewards. Be suspicious of anyone offering you anything, from free holidays and easy to win prize draws, to online correspondence from your ‘bank’.
Scammers are people who try to get you to invest in their scheme, only to disappear and offer you no payback for what you have given them - whether it be time, money or information. Sometimes these scams can string along the ‘victim’ for years with promises of future rewards. Be suspicious of anyone offering you anything, from free holidays and easy to win prize draws, to online correspondence from your ‘bank’.
One of the best ways to spot this type of fraud is to check your credit report for any unusual activity. And remember, PrivacyGuard membership offers both online access to your credit report as well as an alerts service, helping protect you from fraud and identity theft attempts.