Internet Scams - International Modem Scam

Think you're safe because you're dialling from your own modem on your computer? Sad to say, it may not be as safe as you think.  Thousands of innocent surfers have become the victim of auto-diallers. The auto-diallers are downloaded on to your computer and reset your own modem configuration. This means they essentially knock out your own phone number - you'll probably notice a disconnection as it does so - and introduce the rogue one.

The rogue phone number is then dialled, and the connection is re-established. There's a high chance you'll think nothing of it, and put it down to a temporary glitch with your ISP (Internet Service Provider).

The first you'll know of the rogue dialler is when your phone bill drops through the letterbox. Your bill will have increased dramatically, as the dialler inevitably calls a high premium number. Well, the criminal has to skim off a fair profit, right?

How do they do it?

They need your co-operation in the scam. The scamster has to install software on your computer first. They usually do this by piggybacking it on another piece of software downloaded from the Internet. This could be a freebie program, a music file, or free porn. Once the program is downloaded, it sets about its task of emptying your wallet/purse. Broadband users needn't worry, as it only affects people with dial-up connections.

How To Protect Yourself

The auto-dialling scam may happen on gaming and music download sites. It's the lure of the "freebie" that the scamsters play on. Be wary of pop-up ads and e-mail attachments. If you open the attachment, it will reconfigure your modem.

Tips for your online safety -

** You should disconnect all dial-up connections when you're not using them.

** Delete any dialler programmes that you might have downloaded. You can use Spybot to locate them.

** You shouldn't download any software unless you trust the source. Always remember to read and understand the user agreement thoroughly before clicking "Yes".

** Children can sometimes inadvertently download diallers. Keep watch on their internet activities closely. Teach them good safety conduct online, such as not clicking on pop-up ads without asking you first.

** Use a firewall and a good anti-virus programme, and update them regularly. Scan your computer as least once a week.

** If your modem starts dialling when you didn't instruct it to, check the number it's dialling. If it isn't the one you configured, disconnect immediately and check for the rogue dialler on your computer. Delete it and report the matter to your phone provider. Ask them to ban the number for you as soon as possible.

Anti-spyware programmes, such as Spybot and Microsoft Defender, can be effective in finding and removing the auto-diallers.

Help! I've Been Scammed -

You should contact both your ISP and your telephone service provider immediately. Your ISP will put a block on the number that's being dialled.

The issue of your large bill may be more tricky. Most phone companies allow you a good grace waiving of the amount if it's the first time. Further instances may prove more difficult to remedy.

The most important thing you can do is to make sure you're aware of the potential damage lurking in the tempting "freebie", and know what to do if anything untoward does happen.

Modem hijacking is a nasty scam. Don't make it easy for them.

http://www.buzzed-up.com

Emily Banks/freelance writer.