How To Be Web-Ready
- Keep private
information private
Smart surfers don't
disclose personal information unless they know who's collecting it, why, and how
it's going to be used. And they never disclose their password.
- Get to
know online merchants
Be cautious of a company that claims to have a secret connection
overseas or doesn't allow e-mail replies.
- Question out-of-this-world
claims
Claims
like "you can earn over $50,000 a month" or "lose weight without dieting"
suggest a scam. Be wary of any company that makes a product or performance claim
that's unlikely - or just plain hard to believe.
- Make sure
it's secure
If you
buy something on the Internet and need to give your credit card number, verify
the online security or encryption before you do business.
- Know who's
who
Online, anyone
can be anyone, anywhere. Because it's easy to fake e-mail addresses, be mindful
of who you're listening to or talking with before you give out personal
information.
- Watch the
.exe files
Secret
programs may exist in files you download - especially .exe
files. These files could ruin your hard
drive, hijack your modem, or collect information about you without your knowledge.
Install a virus protection program
before you go online.
- Filter
for fun
Inexpensive "filtering" software programs help make sure your
family members are protected from sites that may not be age - or
interest - appropriate.
Report Frauds & Scams:
It's not always easy to spot scams, and new
ones are invented every day. If you suspect that you
may be a target of fraud, or if you have already sent
funds, don't be embarrassed - you're not alone. If
you want to report a fraud, or if you need more information,
contact PhoneBusters:
Toll Free: 1-888-495-8501
Fax: (705) 494-4008 Toll Free Fax: 1-888-654-9426
Email: info@phonebusters.com
or contact the Competition Bureau
1-800-348-5358
Website: www.cb-bc.gc.ca
Email: compbureau@cb-bc.gc.ca
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