Computer-savvy criminals recognize the vast potential to commit fraud crimes through the Internet. Follow these tips to avoid becoming a victim:

• Do business with those you know and trust, and be aware of the location of the business. Businesses operating on the Internet may be in another part of the country or another part of the world - or they may not even exist. In addition, resolving issues with an unfamiliar business can be more complicated in long-distance or cross-border transactions.
• Understand the offer. Look carefully at the products or services and ask for more information if you need it. A legitimate business will gladly offer information on products and services; a fraudulent business will not. Know what you’re buying, the total price, delivery date, return or cancellation policy and the terms of any guarantee. Print all information for documentation.
• Research the company or individual’s track record. Check the Better Business Bureau for complaint records and ask for an opinion on that business. Remember that lack of a complaint record is no guarantee of legitimacy.
• Never give your bank account numbers, credit card numbers or other personal information to anyone you don’t know or haven’t checked out. Don’t provide unnecessary information to make a purchase. Make purchases with a credit card, not cash. You can always dispute fraudulent credit card charges, but you can’t get cash back.
• Take your time. While there may be time limits for special offers, high-pressure sales tactics are often signs of fraud.
• Don’t judge legitimacy by how a website looks. Anyone can create, register and promote a website.
• Don’t believe everything you read on the Internet. Someone who is sharing tips about a moneymaking scheme or a great bargain on a chat room or bulletin board may have an ulterior motive: to take your money.
• Con artists often use unsolicited emails. Be sure to report all unsolicited emails or “spamming” to your Internet provider.
• Don’t download programs from unfamiliar websites. You could accidentally download a virus that wipes out your files or hijacks your Internet service.
• Criminals will take advantage of anyone who is not well educated on how to safely use the Internet. Use Internet security software and remember to keep it updated.