Top tips for avoiding computer scams

Computers play a vital part in the day-to-day running of a business. Even professions which are traditionally more labour intensive, such as the work of tradies, are becoming increasingly dependent on digital practises to manage their enterprises.

From payment systems to work delegation and invoicing, a computer is an equally important tool of the trade.

However, with technology creeping further into our daily routines, it is important to recognise the risks associated with heavy use of digital systems and vulnerability that they can impose on people.

Computer scams are rife around the world and can target anybody - ripping Australians off more than $55 million a year. And while sophisticated computer programs can minimise the risks of you being targeted, there are still a huge number that filter through the system.

Most people are pretty switched on when it comes to computer scams these days, sensing the lack of authenticity straight away.

Popular cons include an off-shore fortune waiting for the right dignitary to claim and false lottery winnings.

And while the common ones are easy enough to avoid, fraudsters are constantly looking at new avenues to lure in unsuspecting victims. Therefore, it is important that for the sake of both yourself and your business, that you are alert to the different types of scams and apply vigilance in your approach to computer use.

Internet scammers target their victims through a variety of ways. With technology constantly evolving, fraudsters can use sophisticated software to mask their voices and identities - increasing their authenticity.

And for tradies, if your business is advertised online, the risk of being targeted by a fraudster is heightened because your contact details are already in the public domain.

While some scams are easy to spot a mile off, others are convincing and need more of a watchful eye.

The following are some top tips to protect yourself and your business from internet con artists:

-          Install effective software that will both protect your computer from viruses and also filter out unwanted spam.

-          Never give out bank account or personal information to a website you are not certain is genuine.

-          Avoid issuing information about your business unless you know what it will be used for.

-          Minimise the amount of people in your company with the authorisation to make orders and pay invoices.

-          Always ensure the business you are billing or paying is one which you normally deal or know their authenticity.