November 18th 2024.
As we approach the holiday shopping season, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers that come with online shopping. Last year, over £11.5 million was lost to online scammers during the festive period, and that's why the UK's National Cyber Security Agency has launched a campaign to help protect consumers. They're encouraging everyone to set up two-step verification on their most important accounts, which adds an extra layer of security even if a criminal knows your password.
In addition, shoppers are being warned to be cautious of any offers or promotions that seem too good to be true. Cyber criminals often use limited-time deals or items that appear scarce to create a false sense of urgency and trick people into making hasty decisions. It's also important to be wary of clicking on any unfamiliar links and to research the company or seller before making a purchase. Checking reviews on trusted sites can help prevent falling victim to a scam.
Richard Horne, the chief executive of the NCSC, emphasizes the importance of following their online shopping guidance, which includes setting up two-step verification and using strong passwords made up of three random words. He also warns that cyber criminals are becoming more sophisticated, using AI to craft their scams and make them harder to detect.
Lord Hanson, the fraud minister, acknowledges that more needs to be done to combat online fraud and that initiatives like the NCSC's campaign are crucial in providing practical advice to the public. He urges shoppers to stop and think before clicking on anything that doesn't feel right, and to break contact and avoid clicking on any links if necessary. The government is dedicated to fighting against this type of crime and will continue to work with industry and other partners to better protect the public.
These warnings come after charity Action Fraud revealed that over £11.5 million was lost to online scammers during the 2023 festive period. Social media platforms were mentioned in 43% of these reports, while online marketplaces were mentioned in nearly 19%. The majority of reports were made by individuals aged 30-49.
Adam Mercer, the deputy head of Action Fraud, stresses the importance of staying safe while shopping online, especially during the festive season. He advises against feeling pressured to make a purchase and reminds people to be cautious when buying from social media or online marketplaces. It's also recommended to avoid bank transfers and use a credit card for added protection. The Stop! Think Fraud website offers practical tips for shopping safely online and can help prevent falling victim to fraudsters.
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