Menu
03/12/2009
E-Crime Unit Targets Scam Websites
London's Metropolitan Police's e-Crime Unit (PCeU) has taken action to remove hundreds of 'dodgy' wesbsite operations.
As a result, there will be 1,219 less 'scam' websites to con internet users this Christmas.
As part of Operation Papworth, the PCeU targeted websites run by organised criminal networks which purported to sell designer items - including Ugg Australia Boots, ghd hair straighteners, and jewellery from Tiffany & Co.
Innocent shoppers were duped into making what appeared to be bargain purchases, but received either nothing at all or counterfeit products.
Victims also ran the potential risk of the criminals stealing their identity for misuse elsewhere.
The websites are thought to have generated millions of pounds for the gangs which could then be used to fund other illicit activity.
The PCeU worked along side Nominet - the body responsible for UK domain name registrations and one of the world's largest internet registries, managing over eight million domain names.
Therefore, as a result of PCeU's deregistration of the illegal websites at registry level this also prevented re-registration.
Intelligence showed that the vast majority of the sites were registered from Asia, despite their UK domain names, mostly using false or misleading details.
That made it almost impossible for victims to complain about poor quality, counterfeited items or goods not received.
It also makes it difficult for Trading Standards or other law enforcement agencies to take action.
Detective Superintendent Charlie McMurdie, head of the PCeU, said: "Fraudsters target the victim's desire to buy designer goods at reduced prices, particularly at this time of year.
"The risk begins when your desire to purchase blinds your judgment or leads you to illegal websites. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is."
(LB/BMcC)
As a result, there will be 1,219 less 'scam' websites to con internet users this Christmas.
As part of Operation Papworth, the PCeU targeted websites run by organised criminal networks which purported to sell designer items - including Ugg Australia Boots, ghd hair straighteners, and jewellery from Tiffany & Co.
Innocent shoppers were duped into making what appeared to be bargain purchases, but received either nothing at all or counterfeit products.
Victims also ran the potential risk of the criminals stealing their identity for misuse elsewhere.
The websites are thought to have generated millions of pounds for the gangs which could then be used to fund other illicit activity.
The PCeU worked along side Nominet - the body responsible for UK domain name registrations and one of the world's largest internet registries, managing over eight million domain names.
Therefore, as a result of PCeU's deregistration of the illegal websites at registry level this also prevented re-registration.
Intelligence showed that the vast majority of the sites were registered from Asia, despite their UK domain names, mostly using false or misleading details.
That made it almost impossible for victims to complain about poor quality, counterfeited items or goods not received.
It also makes it difficult for Trading Standards or other law enforcement agencies to take action.
Detective Superintendent Charlie McMurdie, head of the PCeU, said: "Fraudsters target the victim's desire to buy designer goods at reduced prices, particularly at this time of year.
"The risk begins when your desire to purchase blinds your judgment or leads you to illegal websites. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is."
(LB/BMcC)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
18 November 2011
2,000 Fraud Sites Taken Off-Line
Online shoppers are less likely to fall foul of internet fraudsters this Christmas after some 2,000 "fraudulent" websites were suspended by the Met's Police Central e-Crime Unit (PCeU).
2,000 Fraud Sites Taken Off-Line
Online shoppers are less likely to fall foul of internet fraudsters this Christmas after some 2,000 "fraudulent" websites were suspended by the Met's Police Central e-Crime Unit (PCeU).
07 July 2014
Awareness Campaign Launched Over Fake Govt Websites
The National Trading Standards Board has launched a campaign to raise awareness of fake government websites, charging people for services that are free. It follows the arrest of five people last week in connection with websites make to look like official government sites.
Awareness Campaign Launched Over Fake Govt Websites
The National Trading Standards Board has launched a campaign to raise awareness of fake government websites, charging people for services that are free. It follows the arrest of five people last week in connection with websites make to look like official government sites.
29 October 2010
Ticket Websites Take That... And Crash
Due to a massive rise in online traffic, ticket websites have crashed as Take That fans scramble for their golden ticket to see the manband in concert. The new tour sees Take That and Robbie Williams perform together for the first time in over 16 years. UK stadium dates went on sale this morning at 0900 BST.
Ticket Websites Take That... And Crash
Due to a massive rise in online traffic, ticket websites have crashed as Take That fans scramble for their golden ticket to see the manband in concert. The new tour sees Take That and Robbie Williams perform together for the first time in over 16 years. UK stadium dates went on sale this morning at 0900 BST.
18 September 2009
Tackle 'Pro-Ana' Websites, Says Docs
Psychiatrists have called for urgent action to protect vulnerable young people from the harmful influence of pro-eating disorder websites. So-called 'pro-ana' (pro-anorexia) and 'pro-mia' (pro-bulimia) websites have existed since the development of the internet – but their number has soared in recent years with the growth of social networking.
Tackle 'Pro-Ana' Websites, Says Docs
Psychiatrists have called for urgent action to protect vulnerable young people from the harmful influence of pro-eating disorder websites. So-called 'pro-ana' (pro-anorexia) and 'pro-mia' (pro-bulimia) websites have existed since the development of the internet – but their number has soared in recent years with the growth of social networking.
16 March 2006
Slowing growth for retail sales
UK retail sales growth slowed further in February, following a relatively weak January, the Office of National Statistics has reported. The ONS found that the volume of retail sales in the three months to February 2006 was 0.5% higher than in the previous three months.
Slowing growth for retail sales
UK retail sales growth slowed further in February, following a relatively weak January, the Office of National Statistics has reported. The ONS found that the volume of retail sales in the three months to February 2006 was 0.5% higher than in the previous three months.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
