Consumer Scams, Shams and Spams

Components of the Nigerian Letter Scam
The Nigerian Letter Scam and its infinite variations has been around since the late 70's and is probably known by every fraud officer in the world.

University Diplomas - Can you really get one as advertised on the Net
The notion of getting a University degree in a couple of days is appealing and many of our readers write in to ask whether the claims of this email are legitimate.

Free or Low Cost Personal Computer Offers
Before rushing out and buying low cost personal computers ask yourself the following questions.

809 Scam: E-mail Regenerating an Old Scam
We explain the 809 scam in more detail.

Y2k Scams
We discuss the ways that scammers have used the Y2K problem to their advantage.

Software Privacy: Cheaper Price, Expensive Cost
Why buying pirated software may not be cheaper.

Some Precautions for Online Credit Card Use
A discussion of some of the ways your credit card number can be abused and some suggested precautions.

Scams, shams and spams
A list of common scams perpetrated on the net.

Internet Cramming
What to do when Internet service providers charge for services never ordered.

  Scams and shams found in your email
Here is a list of shams and scams that you can find in your email box.

Online employment tips
Why looking for employment on the net can lead to a scam.

Online Payment Tips
Some thoughts to bear in mind when paying for goods or services online.

Online Pyramid and Multi-level Marketing Scams
Learn what this type of scam is and how to spot and avoid it.

Online Credit Repair Tips
Learn the truth about removing negative information from your credit report.

Online Travel Scams
Learn how not to to buy deceptive travelling packages on the net.

Online Sweepstakes Offers
Learn to read between the lines of any online sweepstakes offers.

Contract Tips
Here are some general tips on what to do before signing any contract online.

The Cost of Spam
An outline of the real cost of spam to the recipient and the internet service provider and useful spam links.

Pagejacking and Mousetrapping: The Real Cost
A discussion of these scamming techniques and their impact.