20 May 2010

FSA warning could boost data security

A recent announcement by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) regarding the capture of a list containing the contact details of thousands of Brits set to be targeted as part of a boiler room scam could go a long way to raising awareness about data security, it has been stated.

Simon Heron, internet security analyst for Network Box, said this highlights the need for individuals to remain vigilant at all times and not to make it easy for people to rip them off.

He commented: "One of the major things I would advise people is not to give away your personal information."

This remains pertinent advice for businesses also, as scammers can target firms in order to rip them off also.

In total, the FSA list contained the details of 38,242 people and is the largest such document ever recovered by the authorities in regard to this type of scam.

As a result, these individuals have been contacted by the authority and warned not to believe cold callers claiming they have share offers or other investment solutions over the coming months.