Cybercrime
Cybercrime and online fraud can happen to anyone; it's important to know where to turn if it happens to you.
Cybercrime Support Network (CSN) is a nonprofit organization created to meet the challenges facing individuals and small businesses affected by cybercrime. CSN supports individuals and small businesses through FightCybercrime.org, a resource database for those affected by cybercrime and online fraud, and ScamSpotter.org, a website to help identify scams and stop fraudsters.
FightCybercrime.org helps cybercrime victims through a process of “Recognize, Report, and Recover” after an incident occurs. To support individuals impacted by romance imposter scams, Cybercrime Support Network offers a free, confidential Peer Support Program for romance scam survivors.
What exactly is cybercrime?
Cybercrime is any activity that uses the internet to access, transmit, or manipulate data for illegal purposes. This includes the fraudulent representation of oneself for financial gain, personal gain, or with malicious intent.
Common types include:
- Identity theft
- Imposter scams
- Hacked accounts and devices
- Financial and purchase scams
- Cyberbullying, harassment, and stalking
Rules you can follow to stay safe
- If an offer or opportunity seems too good to be true, it's probably a scam.
- Never wire money, send gift cards, or send a check to a stranger.
- If someone claims to be from a federal agency, call the office to confirm.
- Never accept money from a stranger promising you can keep some of it.
- If you suspect you've been hacked, change your passwords immediately.
Resources that will help you to stay alert
Sign up for fraud alerts from the Better Business Bureau, which includes an interactive Scam Tracker map that follows scams affecting your area.