A new website verification tool has been launched to help users confirm if a site is legitimate before visiting it.
Internet security group Get Safe Online worked with fraud prevention service Cifas to create the tool, which allows users to enter the address of any website to check whether it is a real site or a scam.
The tool is hosted on the Get Safe Online website and uses an algorithm based on over 40 data sources and reports of malicious websites from law enforcement agencies, regulators and big brands. public to identify and verify sites entered by users – providing a trust score for the website.
Fake or malicious websites, often posing as genuine sites, are used by scammers to trick people into sharing personal and financial information which can then be used to facilitate identity theft.
Tony Neate, Managing Director of Get Safe Online, said: “For over 15 years, Get Safe Online has been providing online safety advice and tips to individuals and small businesses to ensure we can all use the internet safely. and with confidence.
“The internet is amazing, but like so many things, there are downsides to watch out for when using it: scams, fraud, people trying to exploit you and your personal information.
“Today’s launch of Check a Website is groundbreaking and we’re very excited to finally be able to offer individuals the ability to literally check a website before using it.
“We are also extremely grateful to our partners who have contributed to its realization. Now we just want to let as many people know as possible so the UK can benefit from this new capability and help improve the united fight against scammers.
According to the most recent data from Cifas, there has been a 43% increase in identity theft cases filed with the National Fraud Database in the first three months of 2022, compared to the same period l ‘last year.
“It’s a great tool to help consumers in the ongoing fight against online fraud,” said Cifas chief executive Mike Haley.
“The devastating impact of fraud can lead not only to loss of revenue or sensitive personal information, but also to loss of trust as you navigate an increasingly digital world.
“By being able to quickly verify if the website you are visiting is credible, you can be safer online, reduce your exposure to illegal websites, and have peace of mind knowing that you are defending yourself against cybercriminals. “
The Get Safe Online website verification tool is available at www.getsafeonline.org/checkawebsite.
Comments are closed.