Unfortunately at Comrie we have been scammed numerus times by criminals breaking in to our machines and the premises they are located on. these criminals are now turning to easier and more profitable ways on-line. Below are so points that we hope will help you keep safe when paying for things on-line. It does look like the day is getting very close for fruit machines in pubs and social clubs to be able to accept debit cards as a way of payment so we have been looking at all our on-line security systems to get us ready for that day.

Data breaches, identity theft and online scams are now daily occurrences. A destructive flood of fraud sweeps the nation, leaving countless victims in its wake. Unfortunately, new and improved technology only gives fraudsters an edge, making it easier than ever for scam artists to steal financial and personal data from unsuspecting consumers. But, there are things consumers can so to protect themselves.

Here are 10 tips to help you steer clear of some of the most common financial scams:

1. Never transfer money to a stranger’s bank account

At some point or another, you’ve probably received an email claiming to be a family member in an emergency situation or from a complete stranger claiming they need help, all asking you to pay monies into an unknown (usually foreign) bank account. DON’T DO IT! If you are concerned about the family member – contact them, their email has probably been hacked and they are sitting at home have a cup of tea!

Although it is one of the oldest internet scams, consumers are still falling for it. Once any monies are transferred into these accounts it is virtually impossible to reverse the transaction or trace the money.

DELETE THE EMAIL – and make that call if claiming to be a relative!

2. Don’t give out financial information

Never reveal any financial information to a person or business you don’t know, whether they contact you via phone, text or email. Scammers will sometimes email or call you, claiming to be from a retailer, financial institution or government agency. They may say your account has been compromised or needs to be updates. More often than not, these crooks are trying to trick you in to giving them your credit card number, NI number or other financial information.

This common scam is known as phishing. Remember your bank or Credit Card Company will never contact you and ask for personal information. If you receive, a suspicious call or email and are concerned about your account, call the credit card company or bank directly to check.

3. Never click on hyperlinks in emails

If you receive an email from a stranger or company asking you to click on the hyperlink or open an attachment and then enter your financial information, delete or report the email as spam immediately. Even if the email appears to be or looks like it from your bank or credit card company, it is more likely to be a scam!

4. Use tough to crack passwords

These day, a password like “12345” or “fluffy” just isn’t going to cut it. Hackers can easily crack password that are simple number combinations for a common pet name. Create passwords that are at least eight characters long and that include some lower case and upper case letters, numbers and special characters. You should also use a different password for every website you visit.

How on earth can I remember 20 different passwords that look something like 5Rg@67&bt3? I hear you ask. That’s where a password programme like Roboform or LastPass can help. These handy programs can help you generate strong passwords and securely and quickly access them when you need them.

5. Never give out your National Insurance number

If you receive an email or visit a website that asks for your number, DON’T SO IT! It is more likely a scam. Legitimate businesses rarely ask for this information.

6. Install antivirus and spyware protection

Protect sensitive information stored on your computer by installing antivirus, firewall and spyware protection. Once you have installed the program, make sure you turn on the auto-update feature to make sure the software is always up to date.

7. Don’t shop with unfamiliar online retailers

When it comes to shopping online, only do business with familiar companies. If you are interested in making a purchase from an unfamiliar retailer, make sure you do some research to ensure the business is legit and trustworthy. ie; search online for consumer feedback and complaints.

8. Don’t download software from pop-up windows

When you are online, be wary of pop-up windows that appear and claim your computer is unsafe. If you click on the link in the op-up to start the “system scan” or some other program, malicious software known as “malware” could damage your operating system.

9. Make sure the websites you visit are safe

Before you enter your financial information on any website, double check the website’s privacy policy rules. Also make sure the website uses encryption, which is usually symbolised by a lock to the left of the website address. When you see the lock, this means the information you are entering is safely encrypted and protected against hackers.

10. Only donate to charities you Know

If you receive a call or email solicitation for a charity looking for donations, do your homework before you take out your credit card. Some scammers create bogus charities to steal credit card information. You can search for legitimate charities on the Charities Commission website.

I hope by reading this it will stop you becoming pray to these heartless scammers.

Remember your personal and financial details belong to you! Don’t let them into the hands of strangers.