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Be safe buying last Xmas presents online

Date: December 14, 2005
Source: Sophos


Over two thirds of users say security fears have made them more cautious about shopping online

Experts at SophosLabs, Sophos's global network of virus, spyware and spam analysis centres, have warned online shoppers to be careful as they scramble to buy last minute gifts for the holiday season. Hoping to take advantage of the rush, spammers and scammers are working overtime to trick the unwary and unguarded with old and new schemes.

"Lurking behind that offer for a faux Rolex or Louis Vuitton knockoff may be a more sinister transaction that goes well beyond the usual con," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos. "In an effort to save time and money by shopping online, frantic consumers may also be inviting criminals onto computers - opening up the possibility of credit card fraud and identity theft."

A poll conducted by Sophos has revealed that security fears have made 69% of shoppers more cautious about purchasing goods online. However, the benefits of online shopping will see ?150m spent online everyday from now until Christmas.


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