WARNING: We take fraud seriously. It is a crime to purchase products with a false name or with the use of an invalid credit card. (An invalid credit card is one that is created for the sole purpose of purchasing items illegally or using a credit card or its information, via theft or unauthorized use.) It is also illegal to misuse the charge back process to take advantage of merchants. If you are a victim of fraud or if you are a perpetrator, be aware that we will actively pursue and prosecute fraud offenders to the fullest extent of the law. Fraud offenders not only take advantage of online merchants and consumers, but they also abuse a system, which the Internet community depends on. Although most fraud offenders use free email services, false names, mail drops, or different bill-to addresses, many are not aware that their web browser transmits a unique Internet address to us which can be used by law enforcement officials to identify and locate them. Currently, RCMP is responsible for investigating all Internet fraud cases. We will also work with cardholders, credit card companies, and local authorities to pursue fraud offenders. Protect Yourself, Protect your Computer, Protect your Business Top 10 Cyber Security Tips 1. Protect your e-identity Use different user ID / password combinations for different accounts and avoid writing them down. Make the passwords more complicated by combining letters and numbers, and change them on a regular basis. 2. Activate your firewall Firewalls are the first line of cyber defense; they block connections to unknown or bogus sites and will keep out some types of viruses and hackers. 3. Use anti-virus software Prevent viruses from infecting your computer by installing and regularly updating anti-virus software. 4. Block spyware attacks Prevent spyware from infiltrating your computer by installing and updating anti-spyware software. 5. Install the latest operating system updates Keep your applications and operating system (e.g. Windows, Mac, Linux) current with the latest system updates. 6. Back up your files Protect important files from viruses or physical damage (such as floods, fires) by making backups and storing them in a different location. 7. Protect your wireless network Wi-fi (wireless) networks are vulnerable to intrusion if they are not properly protected after installation (you can do so yourself or have this done by an expert when you purchase the wireless network router). 8. Delete e-mails from unknown senders If you see e-mails from an address you don’t recognize, delete them immediately. Do not open them! Never download attachments from people you don’t know or follow links to websites listed in the e-mails. They could infect your computer with a virus or spyware. 9. Browse the Internet safely Be cautious when giving out personal information such as your name, address, phone number or financial information on the Internet. Make certain that websites are secure (e.g. when making online purchases) or that you’ve enabled privacy settings (e.g. when accessing/using social networking sites). 10. Call the right person for help Call your local police if you encounter questionable Internet content (e.g. child exploitation) or if you suspect a computer crime, identity theft or commercial scam. If you need help with maintenance or software installation on your computer, call a local computer technician or vendor.