What's up with that? avoiding online scams - ABC 33/40 - Birmingham News, Weather, Sports

On Wednesday's "Focus @ 4," we'll explore the growing cases of online scams. How do you identify the red flags? What steps should you take if you become an online scam victim?

There are a variety of resources available. Two University of Alabama at Birmingham studies are geared toward helping people who have experienced online scams, including mystery shoppers and work-at-home schemes.

One study, funded by Google, invites Alabama residents who have been victimized by online scams to volunteer for a short interview. Volunteers will receive $40 compensation for their participation. To participate, please contact Dr. Kent Kerley at krkerley@uab.edu or (205) 934-8548.

The other UAB-based project is Operation SwordPhish. It is designed to help victims of online financial fraud to have their cases investigated. www.operation-swordphish.com