What is internet fraud?

Internet fraud is a type of consumer fraud law that applies to transactions carried out over the internet. In California, internet fraud is a criminal offense that involves the use of a computer to defraud or deceive someone in a financial transaction. It is also a form of identity theft and can include activities such as stealing someone’s personal information, credit card numbers, or passwords, as well as using fake websites to transact business. Internet fraud can involve a variety of activities, including phishing, which is the use of fraudulent emails to obtain personal information; spam, which is the sending of unsolicited emails; and the creation of fake websites to solicit information or sell counterfeit products. Additionally, criminals may use email messages or social media sites to solicit money from unsuspecting individuals. Internet fraud victims are advised to contact the California Department of Justice if they become the victim of an internet scam. Victims should also contact their local police departments and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Additionally, victims should report the incident to their bank or other financial institution, and they should also consider placing a fraud alert on their credit report. Finally, victims are also advised to contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center. By reporting internet scams, victims can help protect themselves and others from becoming victims of internet fraud.

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