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B.T. Warns of a `Premium Line` scam
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Posted by: forwardone
No I`m not a victim of this one, but in the U.K. B.T has sent warnings out to it`s users about yet another scam.
Quote:-
There are two types of potential internet scams that dial-up internet users in the UK ought to be aware of which can result in large telephone bills. These scams change the way your computer connects to the internet
The first "scam" happens when you access websites that are providing premium content. These sites can be pornographic or copyright sites, such as music and films.
When the website is accessed, a large number of pop-up windows will appear and you will be asked to install some software, to facilitate the downloading of that content. This process will install a dialler that will replace your default internet connection with one that dials a premium rate telephone number.
The second "scam" works in exactly the same way as the first one, however the number that is dialled is an international number, which can cost up to 60p per minute.
If you are a Broadband user you will not be affected by this, as long as you have disconnected the internal dial-up modem from your phone socket and don't use this modem to make fax or voice calls.
How to protect yourself and avoid these issues
Secure your PC
Ensure that the browser on your computer is left at the default security setting. It is tempting to turn off these warnings when they appear. If you do this you may not get prompted to install the dialler software and your computer will install it without your knowledge. It is essential that the security settings of your browser are left at the default - OR - even more vigilant settings. In this way you will receive adequate warnings that something is trying to take control of your computer and your internet connection.
Patch, patch and keep patching
Keep your operating system patched with the latest upgrades from your software's manufacturer. In the case of Microsoft Windows simply visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com to ensure your PC settings are up to date. For further help with this contact your operating system's manufacturer or your PC supplier.
Stay Safe
Every PC connected to the internet should have some form of anti virus software and Firewall protection. This software should be updated on a daily basis, to ensure that it is able to combat the latest ant-virus and Trojan signature files. Some anti virus packages will also detect rogue diallers and other malicious types of software. Speak to your PC supplier about your software's capabilities.
If you are not running any virus software and or Firewall protection, you should disconnect from the internet and contact your PC supplier before attempting to reconnect again.
Broadband Users
If you are already using Broadband you can make sure you are 100% safe by ensuring that your old dialup modem is disconnected from the phone socket or completely removed from your PC.
For more information about Broadband, please click on the Broadband link.
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This information will be of particular interest to U.K. members, but I guess the same sort of scam could be carried out in a number of countries.
Geoff