(
NC)-The Internet has created and has created an unprecedented global marketplace in which opportunities to communicate and transact business have been vastly increased. However, the anonymity the Internet provides can also be used to disguise illegal behavior.
Online shoppers looking for good software deals must be cautious in order to protect themselves from spam email offers, identity theft or "phishing" scams and other bogus offers on the Internet. Here are some helpful tips:
. Recognize Spam! Indicators that an email is spam include senders whose name you don't recognize, typos and misspellings in the subject line, and prices that are too good to be true.
. Don't Post. Avoid posting your email address on public sites where spammers can find it.
. Get The Seller's Address. If you can't find a physical address, then be suspicious.
. Protect And Record Your Transactions. Use anti-virus and firewall software. Conduct transactions with secure browsers only and be sure to keep receipts for all online purchases.
. Report Piracy. Buyers suspecting software piracy, counterfeit software and/or fraud should contact law enforcement agencies and CAAST at 1-800-263-9700 or www.caast.org.
- News Canada
