Australian computer users need to take "precautionary steps" to protect themselves against cyber-crime such as the "I love you" worm and cases of credit card fraud, members of the New South Wales Police Service said today.
"The thing that we're trying to enforce is for people to take care of their own security somewhat. They can't expect police to look after people's security," Computer Crime Unit Detective Sergeant Philip Kaufmann said.
Many cases of computer crime already go unreported, Kaufmann said. "A lot of people don't report instances because they don't think it's a crime anyway. People tell us that there is a lot of crime out there on the Internet, but it certainly has not been reported to the police. So it's not being investigated either," he said.>>Go to ZDNet Australia's FULL COVERAGE of the Love Bug worm
The NSW police received no reports about the devastating 'love letter' e-mail worm, "that I am aware of," Kaufmann said.
However, computer crime is not impossible to police, some "is a lot more traceable than people have been led to believe. There is mislead belief that there is some total anonymity out on the Internet, that's not true."
Cyber credit card fraud is a major concern for law enforcement as valid card numbers are "being hacked into by people all over the world", and used to purchase items on the Internet.
"Credit card holders need to check statements for unauthorised purchases, whether or not they use the Internet," Kaufmann said. He also urged users to take steps such as using secure sites and updating virus protection programs regularly.
He said shoppers should stick to major online stores and steer clear of those that are the equivalent of "backyard" traders. However, he also acknowledged that it's not always easy for the online shopper to tell the difference.
"You have got to trust the sites and read up about where you're going to buy, and buy known brands from known people," he said.
