Security tips for satellite Internet, broadband, cable and mobile users

(ARA) - Cybercrime is booming, and complaints about Internet crime are on the rise once again. Even the most conservative estimates predict that online fraud and Internet viruses will cost Americans hundreds of millions of dollars this year.

Don't become part of next years' statistics. Here are the top 10 scams and viruses to look out for in 2010:

1. Malicious Web sites

Just because a search engine returns a link doesn't mean it's safe. Criminals are using search-engine optimization tactics to create fake Web sites that rise to the top of Internet searches. When you click on these links, malicious applications infect your computer to hijack personal information. Be on the lookout before you click on a result to make sure it's a source you trust.

2. E-mail phishing

E-mail phishing uses messages that appear to be from legitimate sources - such as your bank, the government or potential employers - to extract personal information from you. Click on a link within the e-mail, and you may be directed to a sophisticated clone designed to capture any and all the information you input. Avoid these lures by ignoring unsolicited e-mails.

3. Mobile viruses

Americans are moving to mobile devices to get online, and cybercriminals are right behind them. In fact, smart phones now face new security problems not found elsewhere. If you have a smart phone or PDA, take extra precautions when clicking on links or revealing personal information. And equip your phone with antivirus and spyware protection just as you would your PC.

4. Social networking scams

Popular user-created applications on Facebook have opened the door to spyware, Trojan horse viruses and other programs members unknowingly download onto their computers. Check the source of an application before you download it, and do not put anything in or on your profile that you wouldn't post publicly.

5. Viruses and spyware

Viruses are becoming more elaborate every day. If you are sharing any personal information online, make sure your connection and computer are protected by legitimate security software. If you are using dial up, you may want to consider switching to high speed satellite Internet. Available virtually anywhere, satellite Internet providers can offer comprehensive virus and spyware protection and speeds that can handle frequent upgrades.

6. Foreign scams

You have likely heard about the Nigerian e-mail hoax, a scam that promises to forward a large sum of money to victims in exchange for a substantial processing fee. Copy cat scams are constantly springing up and offer similar propositions. Always ignore foreign e-mails that require you to send money up front or deposit money in foreign bank accounts.

7. Hitman threats

A new type of e-mail extortion that cropped up last year was the 'Hitman' threat, which targeted wealthy individuals and suggested orders to harm someone would be carried out unless a specific amount of money was sent. This type of threat, over e-mail or otherwise, should be reported to the police immediately.

8. Investment fraud

Fake debt consolidation and loan offers are just a few of the many investment schemes that will continue to grow in 2010. With a down economy, people may be more susceptible to these types of offers. Always be wary of rates, deals or investments that simply seem too good to be true. They probably are.

9. Non-delivered merchandise

Although online auction sites have improved tremendously, the phrase "let the buyer beware" should prevail on all online transactions with individual sellers. Misrepresentation of goods or failure to send them at all is a fraud that will never entirely disappear. Buyers must be careful to get background information when available, and to use caution.

10. Seasonal

Every holiday, natural disaster, campaign and cause brings with it opportunistic criminals looking to profit off of good Samaritans. Only make online donations through trusted, reputable sources. Sites such as www.charitynavigator.org can help you check to make sure your donations will be delivered.

Courtesy of ARAcontent