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Education and awareness answer to ID theft, expert says

A security expert has highlighted the increasing number of financial crime online through identity theft saying the best defence lies in stamping out ignorance among consumers.

According to Mahindra Special Services, anti virus software can do a good job of protecting consumers from trojans and information stealing malware but without proper awareness, people will still be affected.

Raghu Raman, CEO, Mahindra Special Services Group, said: "What’s interesting is that the nature of sophistication is not necessarily through the use of latest technology, but through non-technical methods using social engineering."

"Hackers will use simple expedients to crack complicated security measures. They always exploit social weaknesses in people to extract personal information. The answer lies in simple education and awareness."

Speaking to Express Computer, he cautioned against careless disposal of personal data and asked consumers to watch what they throw in their bins and delete any personal data from appliances like PCs or mobile phones.

Cyber crooks are now using mainstream websites to spread malware and viruses which they can use for ID theft, according to Sophos.

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