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UAE Christmas Shoppers Warned against Online Fraudsters

Research from Trend Micro, one of the world’s leading internet security companies, warned shoppers to exercise caution when going to new internet sites to make heavy Christmas purchases.

“Shoppers are advised to look for labels indicating that transactions are protected, and should make purchases from only trusted providers if possible. They should never provide personal information in response to an email request,” says Ian Cochrane, the regional marketing manager for Trend Micro, Middle East and Africa.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, Cochrane said internet users should refrain from opening links that say “click here”, unless you are familiar with the Web site you are operating on, otherwise you will have lost all your vital information, including bank details to fraudsters who are operating online with you for 24 hours.

There is a need to install security software but only from recognised providers.

“To operate in an Internet era is not without peril; the threats are real and can be financially damaging. Globally, businesses and individuals are plagued by identity threats and loss of personal and corporate information. The Middle East is not immune to such attacks,” says Cochrane.

He however mentioned that the biggest cyber threat in the UAE is E-commerce, and has warned internet users to be extremely cautious while operating from the Cyber cafes or from unknown sites, as key-loggers are constantly watching what vital information is being logged.

Clean your machine for free, he says, by visiting www.trendmicro.com/housecall. It is the only way to make sure that there is nothing nasty lurking on your computer watching what you do.

He said there is need to frequently change passwords and to ensure that the Internet service provider installs a known brand of security software to detect spyware and viruses as well.

“Many consumers are simply not aware that surfing the web or operating from running windows can cause problems leading to identity theft or computer lock up,” said Cochrane.

He added that holiday shopping is perfect time for hackers who use spyware, key-loggers and net techniques to cull passwords and sensitive information from users.

“We still give away a huge amount of personal information on social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace. Hoards of cyber criminals are also drawn to these sites as crucial data, needed for identity theft, tends to be readily available — including email addresses, names and birthdays for example”, says Rik Ferguson, Trend Micro.

Cochrane, has asked internet users to look for the padlock icon. “If you can see it in the bottom right hand corner of your browser it’s a good sign that the site you are on is secure”.

williamfaria@khaleejtimes.com