Dialers

Do you use a dial-up modem to connect to the Internet? If so, you might be subject to dialer fraud. Users often forget that anyone could become a victim of cyber fraud, and dialers are still a thing in areas that predominantly employ dial-up modems for the Internet connection. In fact, with a dial-up modem, you DO need a dialer to connect to the Internet. However, there are tons of potentially harmful dialers that may look for operating system security holes or expose users to Trojan infections and cracked programs through a special number, saying the special number allows users to access unique content.

Main Signs of Dialer Fraud

Perhaps the most obvious sign of dialer fraud is a costly phone bill. This happens because some of the fraudulent dialers are programmed to connect to premium-rate numbers. As a result, users could receive a huge international call bill even if they seldom call abroad. How do users encounter these dialers? Well, the most common way is by downloading unsolicited software on your computer. If the software is run, it might configure your internet connection in a way that it would reconnect using the international premium number. Consequently, with this fraud dialer working, each time you connect to the Internet, you would be making expensive international calls.

How to Avoid Dialers

The rule of thumb is to stay away from unfamiliar downloads. While it is natural that you will not be able to avoid downloading programs and other types of files, you have to be attentive whenever you are about to do so. In other words, you need to read a disclosure before you download anything. It could be a pop-up or terms of service, anything that comes along with the suggestion to download the thing you want. At the same time, if you are harassed by annoying pop-ups that try to push you into downloading something disregarding whether you need it or not, you clearly need to close them and exit the site you are visiting.

There are tons of websites out there that are associated with freeware distribution. For instance, users might be tricked into visiting “free and uncensored” websites, but rerouting to the page could have possible charges. The point is that you always have to know what you agree to when you click the terms and conditions box. Be wary of such disclaimers as “to proceed with the download, you will be reconnected to an international location.” That would be a definite red flag that your phone bill is about to increase.

How to Reduce Dialer Risks

Since fraudulent dialers tend to connect to premium international numbers, you can let your Internet service provider know that you would like to block international phone connections on your computer line. Also, if you have broadband internet access, you might as well disable your dial-up model. Broadband internet service is not susceptible to dialer fraud.

There are also multiple tools available that can minimize the potential security risks. For instance, you can employ firewalls and anti-malware software. Also, do not forget to ensure that all the programs that you use, including your browser and your operating system, have the latest updates because updates come with vulnerability patches.

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