The attentiveness of one person can help protect many others from fraud. The Information System Authority (RIA) invites you to report scam websites via email at
cert@cert.ee
, so that scam websites can be removed from the internet.
Fraudsters often use the names of banks, government agencies, courier companies, and other well-known organizations in emails and SMS messages. The content may appear credible and familiar, but upon closer inspection of the sender's details or web address, it may turn out to be a scam.
According to Liis Klein, RIA's prevention project manager, you should pause, focus, and check who actually sent the email or message and to which web address the user is being directed before clicking on a link.
"If you notice a suspicious website, let us know via email at
cert@cert.ee
. Add the web address of the scam site to your notification and, if possible, a screenshot," explained Klein. "We check the information sent and take the necessary steps to ensure the scam site is no longer accessible online. Even if you spotted the scam, the same website may still threaten others. That’s why it’s important to inform us about suspicious sites."
RIA recommends, if possible, to avoid clicking on links in the content of emails or messages and to type the address manually into the browser’s address bar or use a search engine to find the official website. Scroll past advertisements and select the real result from the search engine. If the website seems suspicious, do not enter passwords, PIN codes, bank card details, or other personal information.
Scam websites are also spread on social media, where people are lured to sites that mimic news portals, for example. Such fake sites are often used in investment scams to gain people's trust and entice them to invest money. It is also important to report these sites to protect others who may not notice that it is a forgery.
"Every notification is important and helps remove the scam site from the internet before the next person falls victim to the fraud," Klein emphasized.
During Cybersecurity Month, RIA and its partners focus on scam websites and invite people to report them. The campaign, which runs from October 12 to November 8, involves Elisa, Enefit, the Police and Border Guard Board, Omniva, and SEB.
More information:
itvaatlik.ee