That is why it is very important for parents to monitor their kids' computer use. Also, kids should be duly warned of the dangers of talking to strangers online. Proper precautionary measures should be taken so as to ensure the safety of the kid at all times.
Statistics
Internet crime statistics are horrifying. For instance “phishing” alone generates at least one billion dollars for the criminals. FBI survey conducted in 2004 revealed that around 90 percent of 500 companies who participated in the survey experienced online security problems leading to financial loss for some 80 percent of them.
In 2003, credit card fraud generated four billion dollars for the swindlers. Fifty percent of the credit card fraud occurred online.
Complaints filed as of 2006 of internet-related crimes reached a staggering number 207, 492. The most reported crime was internet auction fraud which accounted for 45 percent of the total complaints.
Around 75% of the perpetrators of internet crimes are male coming from most populous states in the United States: District of Columbia, Nevada, New York, Tennessee, Maine and Florida.
Prevention of Internet Crimes
Just like any crime, prevention is the best cure. Here are some ways to prevent being victimized by these culprits:
- In auction fraud, it is important to communicate with the seller. As much as possible, do not pay through wire transfers or cash. Check the legitimacy of an escrow service before using them.
- In cases of fake cashier's check, contact the bank from which the check is drawn to know if it's real. Take a look at the account number. Fake checks often have account numbers that appear shiny.
- In credit card fraud and identity theft, make sure that the website where you provide your credit card information is secure and trustworthy. Always check your credit card statements to see if there are unauthorized transactions.
- In debt elimination and employment/business opportunities, contact the Better Business Bureau to know if the company you are dealing with is legal. Get the name, address and telephone number of the company.
- Phishing could be prevented if you do not entertain emails that require you to disclose personal information. Contact the business that sent the email to confirm before sending your details.
If you are a victim, report the matter to the police. If your life is in danger, seek the protection of the authorities.
The best way is always to be cautious in dealing business through the internet. Change passwords on a regular basis. Run anti-virus and anti-spyware software regulary too.
Conclusion
The problems brought about by internet to the society are growing. The price we pay for misuse of internet is getting steeper too.
Internet crimes schemes stole millions of dollars from victims every year. The perpetrators are getting more and more creative in their approach thus making the crime more complicated and difficult to stop.
The authorities cannot stop the criminals on their own. The individual internet users must do their share to be able to stop internet crime. It is not only money or properties that are at stake here but also the safety of the lives of our loved ones.
Perhaps, the most serious internet crimes are those involving the safety of our loved ones. It is not unusual to read news stories of kids kidnapped or raped or murdered due to internet.
Kids' use of the internet particularly chat rooms should be given due attention. Parents must educate their kids of the dangers of meeting strangers online and seeing these chat mates in person. Make sure that your kids don't keep important information from you such as meeting strangers.
The internet is a very powerful communication tool and the advantages are immense, if used in the right way.
