The recent devastating earthquake and tsunami which struck Japan may adversely affect Malaysia's trade activity in the short-term.Police and security experts are warning Internet users about the proliferation online scams seeking to capitalize on the tragic disaster in Japan.
As Japan reels in the aftermath of last week's devastating earthquake and tsunami, online scam artists have been quick to create a range of tricks misleading Facebook videos, to poisoned web sites and bogus pleas for donations.
"Beware of phony disaster relief solicitations," warns the Vancouver Police department in a missive posted on Twitter that linked to tips to avoid online fraud and also to the legitimate site for the Canadian Red Cross' Japan earthquake and tsunami fundraising efforts.
The RCMP is also advising people to be wary when donating to charities: Never give cash donations, don't click on links in unsolicited emails and take care when online that clicking on a charitable web site to ensure you are on the correct site and not a dummy one masquerading as a legitimate charity.
Within hours of the earthquake and tsunami, researchers at the computer and Internet security company Symantec reported more than 50 domains with the names 'Japanese tsunami' or 'Japan earthquake.'
"As the death and injury tolls continue to rise, one must not forget those who awake to exploit such delicate situations-spammers continue to maintain the guise of charitable institutions and governmental organizations!" wrote Symantec's Samir Patil on the company's blog. "Don't be surprised to suddenly see an email message in your inbox marked as URGENT and pleading with you for "monitory help" [sic] or a phishing mail urging you to donate to the rehabilitation of those affected by the quake and tsunami.
"Use prudence in finding out the genuine intent of email senders before you reach out or respond."
