How to report e-crime

Posted on 8 Feb 2008 at 14:51

Card, online banking or cheque fraud According to the Home Office, account holders should report these types of fraud directly to the financial institution concerned.

Hacking and other computer crime The Metropolitan Police Service Computer Crime Unit deals with crimes such as hacking and virus writing. In the first instance, crime should be reported to your local police station.

Internet fraud Report all fraud to local police and be prepared to battle over who deals with the case - jurisdiction issues complicate the process.

Identity fraud Contact banks directly if your ID has been used fraudulently. Check your credit rating with a commercial company such as www.callcredit.plc.uk and www.equifax.co.uk, although a fee will be levied. Among other data, your credit file will show all credit accounts opened in your name, plus any recent applications for credit made using your details.

Phishing Phishing attacks should be reported to your bank as soon as possible - provided you haven't been negligent with login details, the bank should cover losses. Forward phishing emails to reports@banksafeonline.org.uk.

Back to 'The e-crime epidemic' main page.

Author: Stewart Mitchell