Financial Crime World

Malta Residents Warned of Growing Threat of Identity Theft and Financial Crimes Online

As online shopping becomes increasingly popular among Maltese residents, it’s essential to be aware of the growing threat of identity theft and financial crimes. With fraudsters on the lookout for unsuspecting victims, taking necessary precautions is crucial to protect personal and financial information.

Common Tactics Used by Scammers

One of the most common tactics used by scammers is sending fake emails, known as ‘spoof emails’, which appear to be from reputable companies or websites. These emails request sensitive information such as:

  • Passwords
  • Credit card numbers
  • Social security numbers

These emails are designed to trick victims into revealing their personal details through a practice known as ‘phishing’ or ‘spoofing’.

How to Avoid Falling Prey to Scams

To avoid falling prey to these scams, Maltese residents should:

  • Never reply to suspicious emails from unknown senders
  • Delete such messages immediately
  • Exercise caution when opening email attachments or clicking on links embedded in potentially suspicious emails

Instead of replying to suspicious emails, it’s recommended that individuals open a new internet window and manually type in the URL of the website they wish to visit to ensure they are directed to the legitimate site.

Additional Tips for Safe Online Shopping

When shopping online, never pay via email by providing credit card details in an ordinary email. Instead:

  • Use reputable payment platforms
  • Secure websites

Monitoring Financial Transactions

To stay on top of financial transactions, Maltese residents should regularly review their:

  • Credit card statements for any unusual or fraudulent charges
  • Bank statements for any suspicious withdrawals

Reporting Identity Theft and Spoof Attacks

If you believe you’ve been a victim of identity theft or spoof attack, report the incident to both your bank and the Cyber Crime Unit at the Malta Police Force. The unit can be reached:

By being aware of these common tactics and taking necessary precautions, Maltese residents can protect themselves from identity theft and financial crimes online.