Which? Computing has developed a fake website to demonstrate
how easy it is for criminals totrick
people into handing over their personal details.
Although sales of tickets for the London Olympics are not yet
for sale, the consumer protection magazine has launched
the website
to warn people about the many Olympics-related scam websites.
Which? Computing said in a couple of mouse clicks and £7 it
registered the name www.olympic-games-tickets.org.uk.
The website, which was created with the knowledge of The London
2012 Organising Committee, makes it clear that Olympic tickets are
not for sale and gives visitors information on where to buy
legitimate tickets and to report any potential scams.
"The Office of Fair Trading is campaigning to make people more
aware of scam ticket websites, but Which? Computing thinks much
more should be done to wipe them out," said the magazine.
It said criminals could sell fake Olympic tickets, steal
personal and financial details and commit identity fraud using
websites like the one it has set up.
Which? Computing editor, Sarah Kidner said, "Criminals are
limbering up for a spate of Olympic-related crime. Several websites
are already promising tickets that don't exist. There needs to be
much stronger regulation of this area to stop con men running off
with our money."