Investigating Committee of the Republic of Belarus informs

How to avoid web thieves:

1. Use separate credit cards for online shopping;
2. After finishing online shopping close the browser;
3. When using the device for online shopping, never click unknown links;
4. In browser settings, you should deny saving logins, passwords and other confidential information;
5. Do not use a device with multiple access for payment;
6. Make payments using devices that have anti-virus software installed (The software must be on, updated. Updates and anti-virus scans should be regular).

How to avoid phishing:

Phishing is a form of web theft in order to obtain confidential information: logins and passwords. It is obtained via blanket (mass) mailing on behalf of popular brands or via personal messages within a social network or on behalf of banks.

1. Check the link you’re about to click attentively (see if the name of a website is misspelled);
2. Often false letters and false websites resemble the design of real ones in every detail;
3. Instead of clicking the link, type it into the search bar in a new window;
4. Do not open online banking applications and suchlike services while using open (unsecured) network;
5. When you came across a phishing act, inform the bank (if the letter has been sent on behalf of the bank) or social network support (if a user sends phishing information);
6. Even if a message with such link has been sent by your friend, keep in mind their account could be also hacked. In this case you need to be cautious too;
7. Before logging in, check if the connection is secure. If you see the prefix https (where s stands for secure), the connection is secure.

How to avoid voice fishing:

Voice fishing is a form of web theft when thieves ask for credit card information, bank account details or ask to do certain acts with the credit card or bank account on behalf of bank officers via phone.

If you receive a call or a text from “bank”:

1. Do not rush to follow instructions;
2. Do not tell personal details even if they call themselves bank officers;
3. Check information by calling to clients support services of the bank;
4. Inform the police.

If you receive a call or a text asking to help your relative, friend, etc:

1. Do not panic and do not rush to follow the instructions;
2. Ask personal questions that help to identify if it is indeed your relative, friend;
3. Using any excuse, try to end communication and call your relative or friend to check up if they are okay.

If you suspect online stores in such acts:

1. You need to stay cautious, do not rush and do not buy anything;
2. Never send money to unknown people even as prepayment.

The source: Investigating Committee of the Republic of Belarus