New data from the U.S. FBIs Internet Crime Complaint Center on reported losses from Internet fraud shows a steep rise in online crime. From the report (available here):

• The Internet Crime Complaint Center received 206,884 complaints of web-based crimes during 2007.
• Internet crime is at a record high. Dollar loss from Internet crime totaled at close to $240 million U.S. in reported losses during 2007, a $40 million increase from 2006.

What's even worse... "What this report does not show is how often this type of activity goes unreported," says the FBI's Cyber Division assistant director. "The Internet presents a wealth of opportunity for would-be criminals to prey on unsuspecting victims, and this report shows how extensive these types of crime have become."

What can you do? Don't give cyber scammers the opportunity to take advantage of you or any online beginners that you know. It's timely that the U.S. FTC has just released new "phishy videos," the latest tool on its OnGuard Online website, to help alert consumers to online scams - take a look at these practical tips or pass them on to others. Another good starting point for information and advice is our own Spyware Education Center.