FAQ
- What is internet dumping?
Internet Dumping, sometimes called "modem hijacking” is a dialer program that exploits lowered ActiveX browser settings to install itself, occurs when a website purposely disconnects you from your local Internet Service Provider (ISP), which is usually accessed using a local call and reconnects you through another one, usually using an international or premium rate number. The website might even ask your permission first, but it may be written in small print amongst other information.
- How does it occur?
Internet dumping, the term we use to refer to these overseas-based adult and entertainment scams, has been in
e-business ever since the existence of the internet. These website offer software downloads (Games, applications, SMS-logos etc), Instant News Services, Information such as Jobs, Homework, Essays, Cooking, Travel, Horoscopes, IQ-Tests and adult/sexual content, adult entertainment or children games.
Unfortunately, customers are often misled by web operators (webmasters) of the ‘free instant access’ scheme. Webmasters set up a website to trick consumers into paying to access Internet content they advertise as “free” or
“no credit card required.”
Upon clicking on the ‘free instant access’ link, an ActiveX applet, also known as ‘modem hijacker’ or ‘auto dialer’ will be downloaded to viewers’ computer. Modem hijacking occurs when a dialer program is installed on a computer, with or without the owner’s knowledge or consent, and proceeds to reconnect the computer to another server, usually located in another country. Installation starts automatically, normally without the user’s knowledge or permission, and during the process, the website fills the screen with endless pop-ups, trick links, and blind links.
Most websites pop up a message box notifying viewers that they are about to download the applet. However, please be informed that there are nasty websites that automatically download, install and execute modem hijacker even without prompting the viewers.
- Who it affects?
Dial-up modem users who have IDD access on the telephone line used to dial-up to the internet.
- Are you or your children at risk?
Virtually any household can become a victim to these malicious dialers. Curious teenagers can fall for the scam very easily when they want to enter an adult/gambling website. These websites are often busy with many pop-up windows or banners making it easy to click on window that will transfer the user from initial dial-up number to a premium number.
More often, the user has clicked on a pop-up agreement window or has not read all the conditions on entering a new part of a site. The inexperienced user is most at risk, in particular the children who find it hard to understand the information on the screen.
- How to protect your household from internet dumping?
Do-it-yourself Measures:
- Don’t be lured to view “free” websites
Read the terms and conditions before accessing “free” websites. Don't click the "Submit" or "I Accept" button if there is a clause that states customers will be connected to an international dialler or ISP.
- Re-set dialler to local ISPs
Customers may, before connecting to the Internet, re-set their dialler to local ISPs if they fear that their past usage had resulted in their dialler defaulting to the international ISP connection.
- Beware of pop-up windows
Some adult entertainment websites are designed to attach cookies to other programmes used all the time on the computer. Instead of clicking on the "close" or "X" button in the window, press the "Alt" and "F4" buttons simultaneously to close a pop-up window.
- Be careful when downloading files and programmes
Be wary when prompted to download and install files from the website. Read the Terms & Conditions and any other material available before proceeding with the installation.
- Restrict access through Internet Explorer
Access the Tools menu in Internet Explorer, choose "Internet Options" and select the "Content" tab. There are four main ratings settings in Internet Explorer that can be configured: Language, Nudity, Sex and Violence. Choose a ratings setting by clicking on its name and then use the slider bar to adjust how strictly the settings are applied.
Other tips to prevent it happening to you are:
- Read everything, even the fine print, before downloading something onto your computer
- Turn off your computer and modem when not in use
- Don't delete data from your browser's history files, so that you can trace back problems if necessary
- Monitor other people when they use the Internet on your computer
- Be especially careful of adult websites
- Make sure you can hear your modem. Some people have a volume control on their modem and have it turned
down - then you can't hear it redialling.
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