Internet fraud warning (From Barry And District News)

Internet fraud warning

4:46pm Sunday 13th July 2008

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POLICE in the Vale are repeating their warning about the dangers of internet fraud.

It follows a report of a Vale woman, aged in her 50s, sending £3,600 by electronic transfer to a Cypriot account after she followed up an internet advertisement from a Chicago-based company called Havoc Consultancy Group.

She reported the incident to police when a cheque she received was returned by her bank and not cashed.

Sergeant Paul Revers said: "The internet provides criminals with an easy way to contact thousands of people at a time.

"Examples include emails offering the chance to take part in money making schemes, or claiming you are the winner of a prize draw.

"You can avoid being a victim of internet fraud by remembering that if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

"You should take your time making decisions that involve parting with money and get independent financial advice before making investments.

"You should only do business with companies that you recognise or know of by recommendation by someone you trust.Certainly do not judge a company on how 'professional' their website looks.

"If in any doubt, you can check a company is genuine by looking them up on Companies House or the Financial Services Authority websites - if they are they will be registered "People should never send money or provide banking details to any unknown individual or organisation. The message to members of the public is to avoid any offers of this type.

"Unfortunately this lady has sent £3,600 to Cyprus in good faith but has not heard anything.

"If anyone has any concern then they should contact their local trading standards department or Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 for further advice."

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