Cybercrime And Its Impact On Online Businesses
Though the modern commercial world is depending more and more on internet and online business transactions, it is time to take note of the dangers involved while weighing its benefits. Shrewd business men should not let their guard down at any time and should keep a number of points in mind while conducting such business transactions.
Have a complicated password - Having a simple password such as your name or address would be simple for cyber criminals to guess and access. A password should be as difficult and distinct as you can make it. It should ideally be a mix of numerals and alphabets so as to be puzzling to anyone trying to access your personal information. Having a pass word that means something only to you but makes no logical sense would be ideal and somewhat secure. However it must be kept in mind that the smarter you get there is always someone smarter and enemies or criminals should never be underestimated. Mixing a password with symbols such as @, # and % would also be a good choice.
Safeguard the password - Safeguarding your password at all costs is of prime importance. Never ask your secretary or office assistant to check your mails or access your bank account however trustworthy or dedicated they may be. It is also necessary not to write down your password in a diary, calendar or especially besides your computer. It is also advised that you change your password as often as you can. This will be a deterrent though not a guarantee against cyber crime.
Unsolicited or anonymous e mails - There are a number of e mails that find themselves into your in box. These are best deleted immediately and one should be warned never to fall prey to promises of large sums of money or news of winning lotteries and competitions.
Check bank accounts regularly - It is necessary for those conducting businesses online to have a regular check on bank accounts. One can also instruct banks to contact you before making any transactions beyond a certain limit. There are a number of banks that contact clients either online or through SMS facilities before making substantial business transfers. This would safeguard against any sort of banking frauds and wrongful transfers of money to unknown account numbers.
Keep personal information strictly personal - Online business associates and company personnel need to know that it is not only necessary but of prime importance to protect you identity. Do not give out all personal information at the very outset of a business contact or at an initial introduction or meeting. Keep your relevant details of name, address, credit card number, phone numbers, business details, bank account or transaction details etc to yourself. This can be of not use to the other party at least at the first few meetings. When you are not talking face to face with business associates you are not sure who you can and cannot trust.
Do not download free software - It is advisable not to download free software unless you are sure that it is from a reputed company. There are a number of sites that offer free software but not all of these are above board. It is best to install antivirus protection software and turn on firewall for added safety.