Top signs of browser fraud

BANGALORE, INDIA: iYogi , a provider of on-demand remote tech support services, has released a new iYogi Alert on Browser Fraud, which is programmed by scammers to take charge of your computer’s Internet browser using malicious software.

Once a browser is infected, the scammer is capable of controlling the settings and display of your page while you are surfing the web. Through interactions with its large base of subscribers, iYogi monitors and publishes activities to alert and inform other customers on how to prevent themselves from becoming a victim of an online fraud or scam, a release said.

Also read: Fraud detection tools don't work well in mobile world  

"The browser hijacking fraud is yet another example of how online scams can easily access and take control of your computer applications," says Vishal Dhar, President Marketing and co-founder of iYogi . "Such frauds do not merely create frustration, but can also compromise the security of one’s data. In addition to working with customers to recover from such scams, iYogi helps customers take essential preemptive steps by keeping their computers protected and practicing good browsing habits."

Also read: Android malware: Your banking details may be targeted

According to the release, iYogi has uncovered several ways to identify if your browser has been hijacked. These may include seemingly minor issues such as having your home page change without your knowledge. More serious actions can involve altered settings on your computer system, new and unwanted links added to your browsing list, an endless number of pop-ups appearing on your screen, or new toolbars or favorites being installed. You may be unable to navigate to certain webpages, especially those that lead to a security software website. Your system may also experience an overall slowdown due to the malicious software.

What you can do about it:

Laptops are more prone to frauds than desktops, as users on wireless networks can be easily compromised and manipulated even with a firewall running. However, there are still a number of ways to prevent becoming a victim of such threats. Remember that not every e-mail that arrives to your inbox is necessarily safe, so you must be very cautious when it comes to selecting which e-mails to open. Refrain from opening junk e-mails or e-mails from unknown senders and make sure that you have reliable security software installed in your computer and are diligent about updating it regularly.

(PR Log)

Also read: China, India most affected nations by cyber crime