Staying safe online: practical tips to avoid internet fraud
Online fraud is becoming more sophisticated and increasingly affects individuals, families and businesses. Phishing messages, hacked accounts, fake web shops and investment scams can cause significant financial and emotional harm. Prevention is essential — but knowing how and where to report incidents is equally important.
The Belgian government’s Safeonweb platform not only provides prevention tips, but also allows you to immediately report a cyberincident or find the right authority to assist you.
Five essential safety tips:
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Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access. -
Be alert to phishing.
Forward suspicious emails or messages to suspicious@safeonweb.be and then delete them. If received at work, follow your company’s internal procedures. -
Verify online shops and investment offers carefully.
Unrealistic returns often indicate fraud. Victims of online investment or credit fraud should contact FSMA. -
Protect your personal data.
For data protection questions, contact the Data Protection Authority (www.dataprotectionauthority.be). -
Act quickly if something goes wrong.
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Report fraud or consumer deception via consumerconnect.be
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Report online crimes to your local police station
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Companies can confidentially notify the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium
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Report hacked accounts directly to the affected platform
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Report child abuse material via www.stopchildporno.be
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