Nothing could be simpler than completing a purchase on an online platform. It's convenient and fast. Be careful, however, to take the necessary precautions to avoid the nightmare.
The situation in Switzerland
24,938 crimes were recorded by the police in Switzerland in 2020. With the increase in the number of web platforms, the health situation in 2021 and the purchasing habits that will have been durably driven towards digital transactions, there is no doubt that the crimes recorded this year will be on the rise.
Economic cybercrime was by far the most common type of scam. Legal or natural person, this represents more than 84% of the complaints received.
Scams
From the simple to the complex, everything exists.
The common scenario is the sale of a product on the internet where the seller receives a sum of money without providing you with the goods. The seller then uses another pseudonym and continues his scam on other platforms and from other victims.
Fake payment orders are also common. The mechanics? You are entering sensitive data on dubious sites. Your data is then used in a campaign to convince you of the authenticity of the sender, who is nothing more than a scammer pretending to be an employer, a company or the state.
The email or document received appears to be authentic and in addition, some personal data is included. You pay the requested amount and you're done.
This is similar to phishing, which involves sending an email asking you to fill out a form with your data. The scammer will then use your identity for malicious purposes or attempt to withdraw money from your accounts (let's say you enter your credit card details) and so on.
The latest example is the housing scam with tempting offers that require payment in advance to book the property you want to rent. Don't fall for it if you think it's too good to be true. This is very often the case.
So, how do you protect yourself?
Three words: vigilance, verification and adaptation.
Vigilance.
We are all pressed for time. Work, family, shopping, etc.
We don't always have the head to act quietly or even slowly. We respond quickly to an email, we immediately send our information, we click quickly so as not to miss an opportunity... This is exactly what a scammer hopes for from you.
Alertness requires your concentration and therefore a little time. When making an online purchase, check the authenticity of the website.
Verification.
Here are some tips:
- Is the payment method secure? (padlock appears in your search bar).
- Is there a clear and direct way to contact the company?
- Are there verifiable testimonials via referral sites?
- Does the site appear easily in search engines?
- Are the terms and conditions displayed?
- Does the website have a .ch address or is it a site identified in a third country?
- Does the credit card payment system offer a two-factor authentication solution?
Before passing on any information, check the site, be critical, and if in doubt, just go somewhere else.
Adaptation.
Remember to adjust your password regularly. That means at least every three months. By the way, vary your passwords on the various platforms you use. One password for all your accounts and that hasn't been changed in a very long time = danger. Don't make life easy for cybercriminals.
I'm on a tight budget. How to do it?
You want to treat yourself or a loved one with a gift. However, you lack the necessary liquidity. It is then advisable to find an alternative. After all, you don't have to give a gift to show friendship or love. So be reasonable with your money.
If the opportunity is worth it, if you still want to make the gesture and without it hurting you financially or leading to over-indebtedness, credit can be useful.
It's simple, it's fast, and by choosing the right financing platform, it's also safe and confidential.
Milenia provides you with its network of partner banks and offers the best rates. Your request is free of charge and without obligation. A personal loan adapted to your needs and financial reality will allow you to make the desired purchase. Confidently and safely.
Do you have any questions? Feel free to call us directly; We will be happy to talk to you.