MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The internet is a vast expanse of knowledge and power, used for everything from encyclopedias to sports highlights. Some people utilize its unregulated state for good. Others are not so friendly online.

The wild west feel of the world wide web allows for criminals to anonymously track, hack, and download personal information from everyday people. Many who are new, or infrequent users of the internet can find themselves in bad situations, and sometimes a victim of a stolen identity without leaving the confines of their home. In 2004 Department of Homeland Security deemed October Cyber Security Awareness Month to shed light on the dark spots of the internet, and what people can to do stay safe.

Meridian Township has its own "Homeland Security" in the form of Greg Harris, Fraud Investigator for the police department. Harris believes people are slowly becoming educated with the dangers of the internet, but others still fall victim to an easily avoided crime.

"Almost all our credit card frauds are done over the internet," says Harris. "Another way to victimize someone is through the classic email scam. It was done 20 years ago and it's still being done today."

The Department of Homeland Security lists important tips to follow online, such as not clicking on links or attachments in emails, and never giving out personal information online. Harris recommends checking out their website at dhs.gov, or taking the kid-friendly approach by browsing netsmartz.org for tips.

Downloading illegal songs and not reading user agreements when installing software is another way to get a computer virus. Harris believes that people need to avoid being "click happy" and follow the safe and legal route when downloading movies or songs. In the end, Harris believes it mainly comes down the user's personal awareness on the internet.

"If something sounds like a scam, it probably is. Nobody's going to offer you free money or a free car."

While we can all dream, it's much safer to not take the risk. It may pay off in the long run.