Greater Manchester Police are urging bargain hunters not to fall prey to cybercriminals. Today, Thursday 24 November 2016, they took the message to shoppers at the intu Trafford Centre.

 

More of us these days are shopping online, buying everything from electronic devices, white goods to clothing. In fact, figures showed that around £114 billion was spent shopping online in 2015.

 

Unfortunately, in our haste to grab a bargain many of us can fall prey to internet fraudsters.

 

Detective Inspector Martin Hopkinson, of the GMP Financial Investigation Unit, said: “Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas are quickly approaching and cybercriminals cannot wait to deceive and steal your hard earned money.

 

“These fraudsters are extremely skilled in what they do, they know the financial pressure families are placed under at this time of year and will try and will try to lure you in with money saving deals that look genuine. But please be wary of these too good to be true offers. They may end up costing you a lot more in the long run.

 

“It’s predicted that 80% of all fraud and cybercrime is preventable if people follow simple advice.”

 

To help protect online shoppers from being deceived and duped out of their money, the Fraud Investigation Team at Greater Manchester Police has issued a number of points to think about before buying online.

  

1. Value the website over the deal

 

It’s not unusual for a number of shopping websites to suddenly appear online during certain of times of the year, such as the summer holidays or the run-up to Christmas. Some of these websites can be fronts for cybercriminals who are simply after your personal and financial information. Shop with websites that you have used before and trust. Even if the prices aren’t the lowest, it may cost you less in the long run.

Also, always check that the website has a physical address and a working contact telephone number.

  

2. Be wary of emails promising great deals

 

Phishing emails can offer goods at bargain prices. These emails often contain links to sites that can mimic a genuine retailer’s website. Customers, having been deceived, can unknowingly pass on their financial details to cybercriminals.

 

Check the email address of the sender - if it doesn’t look genuine delete it or send it to your junk folder.

Always type in the retailer’s web address or search for them using a search engine.

  

3. Is the website safe?

 

Before entering your payment details on a webpage, make sure it⿿s secure. The web address of the payment page, where you enter your payment/card details, should begin “https://”. The “s” stands for secure.

Also, look out for a small padlock symbol on the right hand of the address bar - this means any data sent is encrypted, making it harder for cybercriminals to steal your financial information.

  

4. Are you up to date?

 

Always make sure that the device and software you’re using to shop online is kept up to date. Cybercriminals can take advantage of equipment and software that hasn’t been updated, making it easier to steal your personal and financial information.

When prompted, take the time download the latest software updates.

  

5. Pay the right way

 

When making a payment to a company website or private seller, always use a secure method such as PayPal, where money is transferred between two electronic accounts. If you do not have a PayPal account and you’re buying something valued at £100+ always use a credit card, you’ll have more protection if something goes wrong compared to using a debit card.

 

Never transfer money directly from your account to someone else⿿s. If you do, know that you have no protection from losing that money.

 

6. Never buy using public Wi-Fi

 

Free public Wi-Fi can provide a convenient internet connection, but be aware that they are a target for cybercriminals. Never shop online, reveal financial details or access your email and social media accounts when using public Wi-Fi hotspots. Cybercriminals can hack the connection and intercept your personal and financial information.

 

Instead, try to use your mobile⿿s data services such as 3G or 4G instead of public Wi-Fi wherever possible. If you must use public Wi-Fi, confirm the connection details with an employee of the organisation providing the free service.

 

For more information on staying safe online visit: www.gmp.police.uk/trappedintheweb or follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #TrappedInTheWeb

 

To report a fraud crime or to get advice about fraud or internet crime, call Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk

Greater Manchester Police are urging bargain hunters not to fall prey to cybercriminals. Today, Thursday 24 November 2016, they took the message to shoppers at the intu Trafford Centre.

 

More of us these days are shopping online, buying everything from electronic devices, white goods to clothing. In fact, figures showed that around £114 billion was spent shopping online in 2015.

 

Unfortunately, in our haste to grab a bargain many of us can fall prey to internet fraudsters.

 

Detective Inspector Martin Hopkinson, of the GMP Financial Investigation Unit, said: “Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas are quickly approaching and cybercriminals cannot wait to deceive and steal your hard earned money.

 

“These fraudsters are extremely skilled in what they do, they know the financial pressure families are placed under at this time of year and will try and will try to lure you in with money saving deals that look genuine. But please be wary of these too good to be true offers. They may end up costing you a lot more in the long run.

 

“It’s predicted that 80% of all fraud and cybercrime is preventable if people follow simple advice.”

 

To help protect online shoppers from being deceived and duped out of their money, the Fraud Investigation Team at Greater Manchester Police has issued a number of points to think about before buying online.

  

1. Value the website over the deal

 

It’s not unusual for a number of shopping websites to suddenly appear online during certain of times of the year, such as the summer holidays or the run-up to Christmas. Some of these websites can be fronts for cybercriminals who are simply after your personal and financial information. Shop with websites that you have used before and trust. Even if the prices aren’t the lowest, it may cost you less in the long run.

Also, always check that the website has a physical address and a working contact telephone number.

  

2. Be wary of emails promising great deals

 

Phishing emails can offer goods at bargain prices. These emails often contain links to sites that can mimic a genuine retailer’s website. Customers, having been deceived, can unknowingly pass on their financial details to cybercriminals.

 

Check the email address of the sender - if it doesn’t look genuine delete it or send it to your junk folder.

Always type in the retailer’s web address or search for them using a search engine.

  

3. Is the website safe?

 

Before entering your payment details on a webpage, make sure it⿿s secure. The web address of the payment page, where you enter your payment/card details, should begin “https://”. The “s” stands for secure.

Also, look out for a small padlock symbol on the right hand of the address bar - this means any data sent is encrypted, making it harder for cybercriminals to steal your financial information.

  

4. Are you up to date?

 

Always make sure that the device and software you’re using to shop online is kept up to date. Cybercriminals can take advantage of equipment and software that hasn’t been updated, making it easier to steal your personal and financial information.

When prompted, take the time download the latest software updates.

  

5. Pay the right way

 

When making a payment to a company website or private seller, always use a secure method such as PayPal, where money is transferred between two electronic accounts. If you do not have a PayPal account and you’re buying something valued at £100+ always use a credit card, you’ll have more protection if something goes wrong compared to using a debit card.

 

Never transfer money directly from your account to someone else⿿s. If you do, know that you have no protection from losing that money.

 

6. Never buy using public Wi-Fi

 

Free public Wi-Fi can provide a convenient internet connection, but be aware that they are a target for cybercriminals. Never shop online, reveal financial details or access your email and social media accounts when using public Wi-Fi hotspots. Cybercriminals can hack the connection and intercept your personal and financial information.

 

Instead, try to use your mobile⿿s data services such as 3G or 4G instead of public Wi-Fi wherever possible. If you must use public Wi-Fi, confirm the connection details with an employee of the organisation providing the free service.

 

For more information on staying safe online visit: www.gmp.police.uk/trappedintheweb or follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #TrappedInTheWeb

 

To report a fraud crime or to get advice about fraud or internet crime, call Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk

 

Greater Manchester Police is launching a new campaign to warn people of the potential of becoming a victim of crime on the internet.

 

Beginning today “Don’t Get Trapped in the Web” focuses on cybercrime in general but also draws on four crime types – child sexual exploitation, sextortion, fraud and human trafficking – warning people to be careful when using the internet.

 

Cybercrime is one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK, affecting both businesses and individuals. It includes a range of cyber-dependent (crimes which can only be committed online) and cyber enabled (crimes which can be conducted on or offline) crimes.

 

GMP recorded 9,972 cybercrimes between the beginning of April '14 and end of May '16. The most common types of cybercrime in GM are fraud and harassment, with the biggest increases being seen in blackmail, harassment and child sexual activity.

 

Detective Chief Inspector Danny Inglis said: “The online world is changing every day with new apps and websites creating new risks for anyone using the internet. People are using online sites more and more every day to buy products, meet people and keep in touch with loved ones and the risks are increasingly apparent.

 

“By encouraging individuals and businesses to question their online behaviour and identify potential risks before they become a victim of cybercrime we hope to make people aware of the consequences of such crimes and encourage reporting.

 

“This campaign looks at what people can do to stay safe online and asks them to pause and think before sharing any personal data online – the vast majority of people and businesses online are trustworthy but being wary when using online services helps people stay even safer. A really simple rule to follow is that if you wouldn’t do it in real life then don’t do it online.”

 

Playing on the imagery of being ensnared on a spider’s web, ‘don’t get trapped in the web’ highlights the potential dangers present on the World Wide Web and the steps that people can take to protect themselves.

 

Posters, postcards and social media posts will circulate the messages across Greater Manchester, highlighting the differences between what appears online and what is really happening behind the screens. By asking potential victims not to get trapped in the web, GMP will aim to help prevent people from becoming victims of cybercrime by changing their online behaviour.

 

The team that leads on cybercrime for GMP will also be taking part in a live twitter chat on Thursday 13 October encouraging people to share their experiences and think about their online behaviour.

 

Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Protecting ourselves is the best line of defence against ruthless criminals who use the internet to prey on people and exploit their vulnerabilities. Cybercrime is no different to any other crime and we must not underestimate the impact it has on victims, often causing financial or emotional distress. We can all learn more about how to protect ourselves, our valuables and our loved ones, while helping the police stop cybercriminals in their tracks.”

 

Visit www.gmp.police.uk/dontgettrappedintheweb for more information or staying safe online. If you are concerned that you or someone that you know is a victim of cybercrime you can call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency. If you suspect fraud report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Greater Manchester Police is launching a new campaign to warn people of the potential of becoming a victim of crime on the internet.

 

Beginning today “Don’t Get Trapped in the Web” focuses on cybercrime in general but also draws on four crime types – child sexual exploitation, sextortion, fraud and human trafficking – warning people to be careful when using the internet.

 

Cybercrime is one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK, affecting both businesses and individuals. It includes a range of cyber-dependent (crimes which can only be committed online) and cyber enabled (crimes which can be conducted on or offline) crimes.

 

GMP recorded 9,972 cybercrimes between the beginning of April '14 and end of May '16. The most common types of cybercrime in GM are fraud and harassment, with the biggest increases being seen in blackmail, harassment and child sexual activity.

 

Detective Chief Inspector Danny Inglis said: “The online world is changing every day with new apps and websites creating new risks for anyone using the internet. People are using online sites more and more every day to buy products, meet people and keep in touch with loved ones and the risks are increasingly apparent.

 

“By encouraging individuals and businesses to question their online behaviour and identify potential risks before they become a victim of cybercrime we hope to make people aware of the consequences of such crimes and encourage reporting.

 

“This campaign looks at what people can do to stay safe online and asks them to pause and think before sharing any personal data online – the vast majority of people and businesses online are trustworthy but being wary when using online services helps people stay even safer. A really simple rule to follow is that if you wouldn’t do it in real life then don’t do it online.”

 

Playing on the imagery of being ensnared on a spider’s web, ‘don’t get trapped in the web’ highlights the potential dangers present on the World Wide Web and the steps that people can take to protect themselves.

 

Posters, postcards and social media posts will circulate the messages across Greater Manchester, highlighting the differences between what appears online and what is really happening behind the screens. By asking potential victims not to get trapped in the web, GMP will aim to help prevent people from becoming victims of cybercrime by changing their online behaviour.

 

The team that leads on cybercrime for GMP will also be taking part in a live twitter chat on Thursday 13 October encouraging people to share their experiences and think about their online behaviour.

 

Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Protecting ourselves is the best line of defence against ruthless criminals who use the internet to prey on people and exploit their vulnerabilities. Cybercrime is no different to any other crime and we must not underestimate the impact it has on victims, often causing financial or emotional distress. We can all learn more about how to protect ourselves, our valuables and our loved ones, while helping the police stop cybercriminals in their tracks.”

 

Visit www.gmp.police.uk/dontgettrappedintheweb for more information or staying safe online. If you are concerned that you or someone that you know is a victim of cybercrime you can call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency. If you suspect fraud report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Greater Manchester Police is launching a new campaign to warn people of the potential of becoming a victim of crime on the internet.

 

Beginning today “Don’t Get Trapped in the Web” focuses on cybercrime in general but also draws on four crime types – child sexual exploitation, sextortion, fraud and human trafficking – warning people to be careful when using the internet.

 

Cybercrime is one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK, affecting both businesses and individuals. It includes a range of cyber-dependent (crimes which can only be committed online) and cyber enabled (crimes which can be conducted on or offline) crimes.

 

GMP recorded 9,972 cybercrimes between the beginning of April '14 and end of May '16. The most common types of cybercrime in GM are fraud and harassment, with the biggest increases being seen in blackmail, harassment and child sexual activity.

 

Detective Chief Inspector Danny Inglis said: “The online world is changing every day with new apps and websites creating new risks for anyone using the internet. People are using online sites more and more every day to buy products, meet people and keep in touch with loved ones and the risks are increasingly apparent.

 

“By encouraging individuals and businesses to question their online behaviour and identify potential risks before they become a victim of cybercrime we hope to make people aware of the consequences of such crimes and encourage reporting.

 

“This campaign looks at what people can do to stay safe online and asks them to pause and think before sharing any personal data online – the vast majority of people and businesses online are trustworthy but being wary when using online services helps people stay even safer. A really simple rule to follow is that if you wouldn’t do it in real life then don’t do it online.”

 

Playing on the imagery of being ensnared on a spider’s web, ‘don’t get trapped in the web’ highlights the potential dangers present on the World Wide Web and the steps that people can take to protect themselves.

 

Posters, postcards and social media posts will circulate the messages across Greater Manchester, highlighting the differences between what appears online and what is really happening behind the screens. By asking potential victims not to get trapped in the web, GMP will aim to help prevent people from becoming victims of cybercrime by changing their online behaviour.

 

The team that leads on cybercrime for GMP will also be taking part in a live twitter chat on Thursday 13 October encouraging people to share their experiences and think about their online behaviour.

 

Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Protecting ourselves is the best line of defence against ruthless criminals who use the internet to prey on people and exploit their vulnerabilities. Cybercrime is no different to any other crime and we must not underestimate the impact it has on victims, often causing financial or emotional distress. We can all learn more about how to protect ourselves, our valuables and our loved ones, while helping the police stop cybercriminals in their tracks.”

 

Visit www.gmp.police.uk/dontgettrappedintheweb for more information or staying safe online. If you are concerned that you or someone that you know is a victim of cybercrime you can call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency. If you suspect fraud report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Greater Manchester Police is launching a new campaign to warn people of the potential of becoming a victim of crime on the internet.

 

Beginning today “ “Don’t Get Trapped in the Web” ” focuses on cybercrime in general but also draws on four crime types – child sexual exploitation, sextortion, fraud and human trafficking – warning people to be careful when using the internet.

 

Cybercrime is one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK, affecting both businesses and individuals. It includes a range of cyber-dependent (crimes which can only be committed online) and cyber enabled (crimes which can be conducted on or offline) crimes.

 

GMP recorded 9,972 cybercrimes between the beginning of April '14 and end of May '16. The most common types of cybercrime in GM are fraud and harassment, with the biggest increases being seen in blackmail, harassment and child sexual activity.

 

Detective Chief Inspector Danny Inglis said: “The online world is changing every day with new apps and websites creating new risks for anyone using the internet. People are using online sites more and more every day to buy products, meet people and keep in touch with loved ones and the risks are increasingly apparent.

 

“By encouraging individuals and businesses to question their online behaviour and identify potential risks before they become a victim of cybercrime we hope to make people aware of the consequences of such crimes and encourage reporting.

 

“This campaign looks at what people can do to stay safe online and asks them to pause and think before sharing any personal data online – the vast majority of people and businesses online are trustworthy but being wary when using online services helps people stay even safer. A really simple rule to follow is that if you wouldn’t do it in real life then don’t do it online.”

 

Playing on the imagery of being ensnared on a spider’s web, ‘don’t get trapped in the web’ highlights the potential dangers present on the World Wide Web and the steps that people can take to protect themselves.

 

Posters, postcards and social media posts will circulate the messages across Greater Manchester, highlighting the differences between what appears online and what is really happening behind the screens. By asking potential victims not to get trapped in the web, GMP will aim to help prevent people from becoming victims of cybercrime by changing their online behaviour.

 

The team that leads on cybercrime for GMP will also be taking part in a live twitter chat on Thursday 13 October encouraging people to share their experiences and think about their online behaviour.

 

Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Protecting ourselves is the best line of defence against ruthless criminals who use the internet to prey on people and exploit their vulnerabilities. Cybercrime is no different to any other crime and we must not underestimate the impact it has on victims, often causing financial or emotional distress. We can all learn more about how to protect ourselves, our valuables and our loved ones, while helping the police stop cybercriminals in their tracks.”

 

Visit www.gmp.police.uk/dontgettrappedintheweb for more information or staying safe online. If you are concerned that you or someone that you know is a victim of cybercrime you can call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency. If you suspect fraud report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

Greater Manchester Police are urging bargain hunters not to fall prey to cybercriminals. Today, Thursday 24 November 2016, they took the message to shoppers at the intu Trafford Centre.

 

More of us these days are shopping online, buying everything from electronic devices, white goods to clothing. In fact, figures showed that around £114 billion was spent shopping online in 2015.

 

Unfortunately, in our haste to grab a bargain many of us can fall prey to internet fraudsters.

 

Detective Inspector Martin Hopkinson, of the GMP Financial Investigation Unit, said: “Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas are quickly approaching and cybercriminals cannot wait to deceive and steal your hard earned money.

 

“These fraudsters are extremely skilled in what they do, they know the financial pressure families are placed under at this time of year and will try and will try to lure you in with money saving deals that look genuine. But please be wary of these too good to be true offers. They may end up costing you a lot more in the long run.

 

“It’s predicted that 80% of all fraud and cybercrime is preventable if people follow simple advice.”

 

To help protect online shoppers from being deceived and duped out of their money, the Fraud Investigation Team at Greater Manchester Police has issued a number of points to think about before buying online.

  

1. Value the website over the deal

 

It’s not unusual for a number of shopping websites to suddenly appear online during certain of times of the year, such as the summer holidays or the run-up to Christmas. Some of these websites can be fronts for cybercriminals who are simply after your personal and financial information. Shop with websites that you have used before and trust. Even if the prices aren’t the lowest, it may cost you less in the long run.

Also, always check that the website has a physical address and a working contact telephone number.

  

2. Be wary of emails promising great deals

 

Phishing emails can offer goods at bargain prices. These emails often contain links to sites that can mimic a genuine retailer’s website. Customers, having been deceived, can unknowingly pass on their financial details to cybercriminals.

 

Check the email address of the sender - if it doesn’t look genuine delete it or send it to your junk folder.

Always type in the retailer’s web address or search for them using a search engine.

  

3. Is the website safe?

 

Before entering your payment details on a webpage, make sure it⿿s secure. The web address of the payment page, where you enter your payment/card details, should begin “https://”. The “s” stands for secure.

Also, look out for a small padlock symbol on the right hand of the address bar - this means any data sent is encrypted, making it harder for cybercriminals to steal your financial information.

  

4. Are you up to date?

 

Always make sure that the device and software you’re using to shop online is kept up to date. Cybercriminals can take advantage of equipment and software that hasn’t been updated, making it easier to steal your personal and financial information.

When prompted, take the time download the latest software updates.

  

5. Pay the right way

 

When making a payment to a company website or private seller, always use a secure method such as PayPal, where money is transferred between two electronic accounts. If you do not have a PayPal account and you’re buying something valued at £100+ always use a credit card, you’ll have more protection if something goes wrong compared to using a debit card.

 

Never transfer money directly from your account to someone else⿿s. If you do, know that you have no protection from losing that money.

 

6. Never buy using public Wi-Fi

 

Free public Wi-Fi can provide a convenient internet connection, but be aware that they are a target for cybercriminals. Never shop online, reveal financial details or access your email and social media accounts when using public Wi-Fi hotspots. Cybercriminals can hack the connection and intercept your personal and financial information.

 

Instead, try to use your mobile⿿s data services such as 3G or 4G instead of public Wi-Fi wherever possible. If you must use public Wi-Fi, confirm the connection details with an employee of the organisation providing the free service.

 

For more information on staying safe online visit: www.gmp.police.uk/trappedintheweb or follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #TrappedInTheWeb

 

To report a fraud crime or to get advice about fraud or internet crime, call Action Fraud on: 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk