8 April 2005
Internet security group Panda Software has today made public a new form of online credit card fraud that is currently entrapping thousands of consumers in the UK and around the world.
The firm revealed that a number of websites have been set up attempting to entice users with the offer of cheap flights as people start looking into booking summer trips away.
The sites redirect internet users away from recognised search engines to their cheap airline ticket pages.
The seemingly good priced offers then request people to enter personal details, including their credit card number, expiry date and verification value (CVV).
This is then followed by an error page that explains to the user that the transaction has been unsuccessful and offers instructions on how to pay for the ticket by postal money order.
"This kind of online fraud differs from those witnessed previously," explained Luis Corrons, director of Panda.
"The malicious user does not contact the person interested in buying the product, but it is actually the buyer, in searching for the best prices online, who goes to the fraudulent web page.
"This creates a false sense of security that can lead users to proceed with the transaction," added Mr Corrons.
Consumers are advised to not give their credit card details to unrecognised or unofficial websites and surf the internet in general far more conscientiously to avoid losing out.
Which is the right credit card for you? Find out now by comparing cards at uSwitch.com.
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