Each depositor insured to at least $250,000 per insured bank

Winter 2010/2011

Social Networking Sites Attract Online Criminals

Social networking sites are popular among consumers who keep in touch with friends and relatives by chatting online and sharing pictures, Web pages, video clips and other information. But computer hackers also visit social networking sites to install malicious software on network members’ computers, smartphones and other devices.

"By clicking on a link from a supposed friend who says 'check out this awesome video,' you may end up with spyware on your PC that can be used to access your online bank account," said David M. Nelson, an FDIC fraud specialist.

To avoid problems, be careful about information you disclose on social networking sites, learn how to limit access to your personal information with your privacy settings, and be careful when clicking on videos, pictures and links.

For more tips, see recommendations from the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov/media/2009/091001.aspx.