Cops to host on-line scam prevention meeting

(CNS): The Royal Cayman Islands Police Service is urging people to be extra vigilant when it comes to internet shopping during the Christmas season to ensure that they don’t become victims of internet fraud. Officers from the Financial Crimes Unit will be attending a public meeting tonight, Tuesday 8 December in West Bay to advise people how to avoid being scammed.  “Every year more and more people rely on the internet for their Christmas shopping and we just want to make sure that we are doing everything we can to let people know what to watch out for,” said Sergeant Michael Montague who will be attending the session.

“Internet crooks have no conscience – it will not matter to them that you are spending your last buck buying presents for your kids – if they can scam you they will scam you,” he added.

Police warned internet users when shopping on-line to be aware of potential credit card fraud and advised them to ensure sites are secure and reputable before providing card details and not to provide any financial information when asked to do so through unsolicited e-mails.

Montague said that the reoccurring online scams include exaggerated claims of possible earnings or profits, messages and calls saying you’ve won a lottery demands to send money to be eligible for future winnings. Long standing scams also include people representing themselves as foreign government officials asking to place large amounts of money in your bank account as well as phishing or spoofing where unsolicited e-mails request personal information.

 “Remember that if something appears too good to be true – then it is too good to be true,” added Sgt Montague.

Anyone who wants further information about how to avoid becoming a victim of internet fraud can either attend the meeting in West Bay tonight in John A Cumber Primary School at 6.30p.m. or contact the RCIPS Financial crime Unit on 949-8797.

Anyone with information about crime taking place in the Cayman Islands should contact their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 (TIPS).