Why should I worry about my privacy on the Internet?

Viruses, spam, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, adware, keyloggers, zombies, phishing schemes. Sometimes it seems that danger is always lurking on the Internet, in your email inbox, and maybe even on your computer. But are you and your personal information really at risk? And are the consequences really that bad?

From time-worn email cons allegedly originating from Nigeria to keylogger programs that capture everything you type, scams, fraud, and cons do abound on the Web. And the perpetrator may not be a suspicious-looking email or software hidden on your hard disk. It could be that new friend you met in a chat room or on a social networking site who befriends you and over time gathers your personal and financial information.

What can happen if you're the victim of a scam? You could be locked out of your online account and be unable to access your email. But there can be even greater consequences. You could be the victim of identity theft.

Once identity thieves have your personal information, the results can be far-reaching, difficult to rectify, and financially devastating.

Armed with your credit card information, fraudsters could charge thousands of dollars to your account before you ever see a statement from your credit card company. They can open new credit card accounts in your name.

Using your identity, they can open a bank account and write bad checks on that account. They can authorize electronic transfers in your name, draining your bank account. To avoid legal action against debts they've incurred using your identity, they might even file for bankruptcy under your name.

They can take out a loan, buy a car, and get a driver's license — all in your name. They may use your name to get a job or file fraudulent tax returns. And if they're arrested, they may give your name to the police and fail to show up for their court date. Then, a warrant for an arrest is issued — in your name.

What can I do to protect my privacy?

Even if you've taken steps to protect your computer from malware, you could still be the victim of fraud. Take a few simple steps to protect your privacy while you're online. Learn to identify phishing emails and phishing web sites.

When you're chatting, playing games, or posting messages or comments online, keep in mind that you never know who you're communicating with. For your personal safety and the safety of your online accounts, be very careful about the information you disclose, even if it seems harmless.