Blog post: Online security
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Blog post: Online security
The rapid growth of online commerce has brought with it an increasing risk of online scams and fraud.
In response to this threat, many consumers are wondering how to protect themselves effectively.
Fortunately, there are several online resources designed to help consumers recognize, check, and report fraudulent activity.
Being the victim of an online scam can be confusing and frustrating. However, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Many organizations and institutions exist to help consumers deal with internet scams.
Before browsing the resources below, you can also consult our interactive guide for fraud victims, designed to help you quickly identify the first steps to take after a scam.
Here are some of the websites where you can find advice, resources, and support to help you take the right steps and, in some cases, try to recover lost funds:
Scamwatch is run by the National Anti-Scam Centre under the ACCC and helps consumers report scams, learn about current scam trends, and find practical advice on what to do next.
BBB Scam Tracker allows consumers to report scams they have encountered and search reports shared by others to spot common patterns and warnings across North America.
This is the US Federal Trade Commission’s official fraud reporting website. It allows consumers to report scams, fraud, and bad business practices, and it also provides guidance on what to do after being targeted.
CISA is the US federal cybersecurity agency. Its resources help individuals and organizations understand phishing, malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats, and improve their security practices.
The SEC is the US financial markets regulator. This page allows users to submit a tip or complaint about possible securities fraud, investment scams, market manipulation, or problems involving investment professionals.
The FCA is the UK’s financial regulatory authority. It provides guidance on how to spot financial scams, protect yourself, and check whether a financial firm is properly authorised.
The NCSC is the UK’s national cybersecurity authority. It helps individuals and organizations report phishing emails, scam texts, suspicious websites, and other online threats.
7726 is a reporting number used by many mobile operators in the UK and the US. Users can forward suspicious text messages to this number to help carriers identify and block scam campaigns.
ConsumerAffairs is a private consumer website that offers reviews, complaint information, consumer news, and practical resources to help people research companies and share their experiences.
The IC3 is run in partnership with the FBI and serves as a central online portal for reporting internet-enabled crime, scams, and cybercrime to US law enforcement.
Report Fraud is the official UK platform for reporting fraud and cybercrime. It helps victims submit a report online and explains the steps to take after an incident.
The CAFC is Canada’s central service for reporting fraud and cybercrime. It provides reporting tools, prevention advice, and guidance for victims.
To find the right service more easily according to your situation, you can also use our fraud reporting assistant, which helps you identify the most suitable reporting channel according to the type of scam encountered.
In conclusion, it is crucial for consumers to be aware of and use available resources to protect themselves from online scams. By reporting scams and sharing their experiences, consumers play a vital role in combating fraudulent activities and making the internet a safer place for everyone.
Scam Or Reliable: The free and independent reference dedicated to anti-fraud information, the analysis of deceptive practices and the protection of consumers against online risks. Our team publishes articles, alerts and educational content to help internet users spot signs of scams, understand fraud mechanisms and adopt the right reflexes when faced with digital scams.
Its goal: to contribute to the prevention of scams, phishing, fake websites, impersonation and online commercial manipulation by providing clear, rigorous and useful content based on the analysis of verifiable signals, testimonies and reliable sources.
Warnings: The information presented on this blog is provided for informational and preventive purposes only. It does not constitute official recommendations or personalised legal, financial or technical advice. It must be verified with the relevant organisations, services or contacts depending on the situation. We are not responsible for errors, omissions or inappropriate use of the information provided on this site. If you notice any inaccuracy, please let us know.