Protect Yourself from Scammers on Vinted – How to Buy and Sell Safely – Avoiding Vinted Scams
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Vinted, the popular online marketplace for secondhand clothing and accessories, offers a convenient platform for buying and selling preloved items. However, as with any online shopping and dealing experience, scammers on Vinted and counterfeit sellers are lurking in the shadows, ready to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers and sellers.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to ensure a safe and secure experience on Vinted, from identifying counterfeit items and avoiding misleading photos to assessing seller profiles for reliability and ensuring secure bank transactions.
Key Takeaways – Vinted Scams
- Learn how to detect Vinted phishing emails, and fake websites to prevent your money and data being stolen
Identify counterfeit items on Vinted by comparing advert photos with official brand images, checking seller reviews and other luxury items they’re selling
Take proactive steps to protect your personal data on Vinted
Be aware of phishing attacks, and sign up for security alerts
Follow best practices when buying or selling, such as using Royal Mail for shipments and communicating through Vinted messages
Common scams and tips to protect yourself:
- Counterfeit Items: Scammers may sell fake brand-name items. Protect yourself by comparing photos in the listing with official brand images, checking for detailed descriptions, and reviewing the seller’s history for authenticity
- Misleading Descriptions: Be cautious of listings with vague or inconsistent descriptions. Always ask the seller for more information if you’re unsure
- Cancelled Shipments: Some scammers may cancel the shipment after payment. Use Vinted’s Buyer Protection to ensure secure payments and refunds
- Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices: Extremely low prices can be a red flag. Research similar items to gauge appropriate pricing
- Suspicious Seller Profiles: Watch out for odd usernames, weird profile pictures, and sellers who only have email verification with no reviews or inconsistent listings
- Outside Transactions: Never agree to transactions outside of Vinted. This bypasses the platform’s protections and increases the risk of being scammed
How to Recognise Vinted Scams
- Price and Shipping Anomalies: Odd pricing (e.g., £84.23) or unrealistic shipping costs can indicate a scam
- Duplicate Listings: Scammers may use photos from other genuine listings. If you recognise a photo from another listing, proceed with caution
- Unverifiable Tracking Information: Fake shipping receipts and untrackable or irrelevant tracking numbers are common tactics used by scammers
Tips to Avoid Vinted Scams
- Research Sellers: Before purchasing, check the seller’s profile for positive reviews and a history of transparent transactions
- Secure Payment Methods: Always use Vinted’s secure payment options and avoid off-platform transactions
- Inspect Item Details: Request clear photos and detailed descriptions of the item to ensure it meets your expectations
- Effective Communication: Engage in clear communication with the seller to clarify any doubts or concerns about the item
- Trust Your Instincts: If a deal feels off, it’s better to pass than risk a scam
Identifying Counterfeit Items on Vinted
Counterfeiting is a prevalent scam associated with luxury goods on the site Vinted. Scammers on Vinted are creating listings that advertise pre-owned products at attractive prices, only to deliver counterfeit items to unsuspecting buyers. To avoid falling victim to this scam, it is essential to learn how to spot the fakes and verify the authenticity of the items you’re interested in purchasing.
To identify counterfeit items on Vinted, consider the following strategies:
Compare advert photos with official brand images.
Check seller reviews and other luxury items they’re selling.
Stay aware of misleading photos and descriptions.
Let’s explore these strategies in detail.
Comparing Advert Photos with Official Brand Images
To spot discrepancies between advert photos and official brand images, it is important to verify that the advert photo includes the official brand logo and other branding elements, such as colours, fonts, and design style, all of which should match the official brand images. Official brand images typically feature higher quality and resolution due to being professionally taken.
When examining advert photos, pay close attention to the product details and packaging shown in the images. Note any discrepancies or inconsistencies between details in the advert photo and the official brand images, which could indicate a counterfeit item.
If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to contact Vinted’s customer support for assistance, as many users have already contacted Vinted in the past. While reaching out, note that you may also inquire about the Vinted logo if needed.
Checking Seller Reviews and Other Luxury Items
Evaluating seller reviews on Vinted is crucial in determining the reliability of the seller and the authenticity of their luxury items. Here are some factors to consider.
Examine the star rating provided by prior purchasers
Evaluate the seller’s communication, shipping speed, and accuracy of the item description as indicated by positive feedback
Be cautious of any invalid email addresses provided by sellers, as this could be a sign of a scam.
When reviewing a seller’s profile, consider the number of reviews they have received, as a greater quantity of reviews can indicate increased assurance in the seller’s dependability. Additionally, observe whether the seller actively responds to and resolves customer issues, which demonstrates a dedication to customer satisfaction.
Avoiding Misleading Photos and Descriptions
Scammers on Vinted often use misleading photos and descriptions to deceive buyers, making it all the more important to stay vigilant when purchasing items on Vinted. To ensure the item you’re interested in is authentic, complete and accurately described, pay close attention to the seller’s provided photos and descriptions, and be aware of any discrepancies between them.
If you suspect a seller is providing inaccurate photos or descriptions, it’s crucial to take additional steps to confirm the accuracy of the item. Request additional photos and dimensions from the seller, and compare the product labels with official brand images to confirm authenticity.
Verifying Product Labels
To verify product labels on Vinted, follow these steps:
Review your email or download the label from the conversation screen, ensuring that the correct email address is entered in your profile settings.
Verify the label for any discrepancies between the product description and the label.
If any discrepancies are present, contact the seller to confirm the authenticity of the item.
Be aware of any spelling errors, incorrect logos, or other discrepancies on the product label that could suggest a counterfeit item. To ensure the seller’s legitimacy, review their reviews and other luxury items they happen to have listed.
Requesting Additional Photos and Dimensions
When requesting additional photos on Vinted, ask for:
A full view of the item in the first picture
Additional pictures from different angles
Close-up photos of any details or flaws
Photos of the item’s tags or labels (especially for branded items)
If applicable, photos of the item being worn to gauge its fit and size
For dimensions, inquire about measurements such as bust, waist, and hip measurements for clothing, and length, width, and height for accessories or bags.
Requesting additional photos and dimensions can enable you to make a more informed decision when purchasing on Vinted. Don’t be afraid to ask for more information from the seller to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the item before committing to a purchase.
Checkout our informative article on Royal Mail scams
Assessing Seller Profiles for Reliability
Before engaging in a transaction on Vinted, it is essential to assess the reliability of the seller to avoid potential scams. Factors to consider include:
Positive feedback and reviews from other buyers
Prompt and clear communication
Detailed and accurate item descriptions
Timely shipping and delivery of items
A lack of any history of counterfeiting, misleading descriptions, or cancelled shipments
By taking the time to assess a seller’s profile, you can minimise the risk of being scammed and ensure a smooth and secure sales transaction when you sell on the Vinted platform.
Let’s delve deeper into detecting signs of Vinted scams and keeping personal data private.
Detecting the Signs of Vinted Scams
To protect yourself from scammers on Vinted, it’s crucial to be aware of potential red flags, such as counterfeit items, misleading descriptions, or cancelled shipments. Fraudsters can easily create customer accounts on platforms like Vinted without any verification or proof of identity, allowing them to create listings with any name and address.
To ensure secure transactions are protected from scammers on Vinted, follow these tips:
Be aware of potential phishing attacks and fake Vinted logos, and promptly report any suspicious activity.
As a seller, use reliable shipping services like Royal Mail.
Communicate with buyers through Vinted messages to maintain privacy and security.
- Be wary of the Vinted buyer asking for email addresses, always use Vinted messaging.
Checkout our article on peotecting yourself from online scams
Keeping Your Personal Data Private from Scammers on Vinted
When interacting with sellers on Vinted, it’s important to keep your personal data private to protect yourself from potential scams and identity theft. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your privacy and security on Vinted.
Review Vinted’s privacy policy to gain an understanding of how your personal data is collected, stored, and used.
Create a strong, unique password for your Vinted account
(minimum of 12 Chars, non-dictionary, include upper/lower/special characters, non-discriptive)Consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security.
- Be wary of phishing messages that arrive through a Vinted email address, as they may have infected files attached.
- Be careful not to click on fake site addresses, that can direct you to a fake Vinted web address, that may scam you into entering personal data or have infected files.
- Never disclose personal information, especailly credit card and bank details.
Discover how to create a strong password, read our informative easy to follow article.
By following these steps, you can help safeguard your personal information while using Vinted.
Refrain from sharing unnecessary personal information (such as financial, or bank details) on your Vinted profile or in conversations with other users. Keep your account settings up to date by reviewing the privacy and security options provided by Vinted.
Ensuring Secure Transactions on Vinted
The safety and security of your transactions on Vinted are of utmost importance. By being cautious and vigilant, you can minimise the risk of falling victim to scams and enjoy a positive experience on the platform.
One way to safeguard your credit card, bank details and transactions, as well as your money, is to be aware of the ever advanced phishing attacks and fake Vinted logos in messages invalid email you receive. It is prudent to be alert to any requests to buy or pay for orders outside of Vinted, as this is a common ploy employed by scammers to evade Vinted’s secure payment system. To further protect yourself, sign up for Vinted’s security alerts and updates.
If you encounter any suspicious activity, report it immediately to Vinted to help maintain the safety of the platform for all users.
Recognising Phishing Attacks and Fake Vinted Logos
Phishing attacks are a common tactic used by scammers to trick unsuspecting users into revealing sensitive information. Here are some tips to help you avoid falling victim to phishing attacks:
Be wary of suspicious messages received on Vinted, text messages (SMS), or emails that ask for personal information or direct you to click on dubious links. Consider signing up for free email alerts that notify you about potential phishing attacks.
To verify the sender’s email address, check the domain name of the email address.
Avoid opening any dubious links or attachments.
Stay aware of any requests to purchase or pay for orders outside of Vinted, as this is a common scam used to evade Vinted’s secure payment system. By recognising phishing attacks and fake Vinted logos, you can protect yourself and your money during transactions on the platform.
Phishing Emails and Fake Web Addresses
A common tactic used by scammers on Vinted is phishing messages which attempt to mimic legitimate Vinted communications. These messages might incorporate elements such as the Vinted logo, brand names, or design aspects like colors, fonts, and buttons similar to those found on Vinted’s official website.
A Vinted scam phishing email may direct the victim onto a very realistic looking fake site address, with the word ‘Vinted’ within it’s domain name, making it challenging to distinguish a counterfeit Vinted web site from the genuine one. For instance, deceptive site URLs could look like myvinted.dreamlandshop.net, vintdregistres.com or Accessvintedaccount.com.
It’s important to remember that a legitimate Vinted site will always contain the “vinted.ca/” segment in its URL (Web address).
Reporting Suspicious Activity
If you encounter any suspicious activity on Vinted, such as inappropriate behaviour or content, fraudulent listings, fake profiles, or illicit selling of counterfeit items, it’s essential to report it to maintain the safety of the platform for all users. To report suspicious activity, click the “Report” button on the item page, post or profile page, or contact Vinted directly by emailing support@vinted.com.
Protect yourself from scammers on Vinted by reporting suspicious activity, you contribute to the safety and security of the Vinted community and help Vinted take the necessary steps to protect users from potential scams, such as removing the item or profile from the platform or taking other appropriate measures.
Checkout our informative blogpost on Vinted online chat – Get the tips and latest advice
Tips for Selling Safely on Vinted
As a seller on Vinted, following best practices can ensure a smooth and secure experience for both you and your buyers. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Adhere to the shipping method indicated in the instructions.
Select the most suitable parcel size when uploading your item.
Dispatch the item within 5 business days of the sale.
Use sturdy outer packaging material to ensure its safety during transit.
By following these guidelines, we hope you can provide a positive buying experience for your customers.
By following these tips and advice and utilising reliable shipping services like Royal Mail, you can provide a positive experience for your buyers and maintain a trustworthy reputation on the Vinted platform.
Shipping items
When shiping items on Vinted, it is important to consider the shipping costs and ensuring you choose a reliable shipping company. When packaging your sold Vinted items, make sure to secure the contents properly and include any necessary documentation. Once the item is shipped, remember to confirm receipt with the buyer to ensure a successful transaction.
Using Royal Mail for Shipments
To ensure secure deliveries, it’s advisable to use reliable shipping services like Royal Mail when selling on Vinted. Here are some tips to follow:
Select the most suitable parcel size when uploading your item.
Use sturdy outer packaging materials, such as cardboard boxes.
Cushion the item with bubble wrap, foam, or paper to ensure its safety during transit.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your items, as well as other items, are securely delivered to your buyers.
Dispatch the item within 5 business days of the sale, as per Vinted’s guidelines. By using Royal Mail for shipments, you can offer your buyers peace of mind and ensure a successful transaction.
Mondail Relay
Mondial Relay is a delivery service that is commonly used in partnership with various online platforms, including Vinted, to facilitate the shipping and delivery of sold items.
To use Mondial Relay for sending items on Vinted, follow these steps:
- Choose Mondial Relay as your preferred shipping company when listing your item on Vinted.
- Package your Vinted item securely, ensuring that the contents are properly protected
- Include all necessary documentation with the package, such as shipping labels and invoices
- Obtain a Mondail Relay tracking number for reference
- After shipping, remember to confirm receipt of the package with the buyer to complete the transaction successfully
Communicating with Buyers through Vinted Messages
Maintain privacy and security by communicating with buyers through Vinted messages rather than exchanging personal contact information. Utilise the secure messaging screen provided by Vinted to keep the conversation private and secure.
When corresponding with buyers, it is essential to remain within the paid Vinted platform for the duration of the selling process and refrain from sharing personal information such as your address or phone number. By communicating through Vinted messages, you can protect yourself and your buyers from potential scams and malicious activities.
Learn how to protect yourself from Royal Mail Fee To Pay scams
What is the risk of selling to a Vinted buyer with no reviews
Selling on Vinted to a buyer with no reviews carries a higher risk compared to buyers with established reviews. Without any feedback or rating, it is difficult to assess the credibility and trustworthiness of the buyer.
Exercise caution when selling to such buyers and consider implementing additional safety measures, such as using secure shipping options, to mitigate the potential risks of becomng a victim of a Vinted scam.
Summary
In conclusion, by following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a safe and secure experience on Vinted, whether you’re buying or selling. Be vigilant when identifying counterfeit items, assessing seller profiles for reliability, and ensuring secure transactions on the platform. Remember to keep your personal data private and communicate with buyers through Vinted messages to maintain privacy and security.
As you navigate the Vinted platform, keep these guidelines in mind and trust your instincts. By doing so, you can confidently buy and sell preloved items, knowing that you’re well-equipped to protect yourself from scammers and counterfeit sellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there fake sellers on Vinted?
Yes, there are fake sellers on Vinted. Scammers on Vinted create listings for second-hand products at a discounted price and once a customer buys them, they order the same product from Zalando in the customer’s name and send it to them.
What happens if you get scammed on Vinted?
If you have been scammed on Vinted, just press “I have an issue” within 2 days of the expected delivery and submit a link to a claim for a refund. For further information, see Vinted’s Refund Policy. There is a full process to handle those that have been targeted by scammers on Vinted.
How do I report a scammer on Vinted?
To report a scammer message on Vinted, go to the chat and tap the (i) icon, then select “Report” and provide a reporting reason.
Is Vinted safe for buyers?
Vinted offers Buyer Protection to ensure secure payments and refunds, making it a safe platform for buyers. Their straightforward process also helps protect buyers from any issues that may arise when making purchases.
How can I spot counterfeit items on Vinted?
Be sure to compare the advert photos with official brand images, check seller reviews, look out for misleading photos and descriptions, and review other luxury items the seller is selling to detect counterfeit items on Vinted.
What does a fake Vinted phishing email contain?
A fake phishing message on Vinted, may ask for your account login details, payment account or another service you use when buying or selling on Vinted.
They may also request your email address, phone number, bank card details, pictures of your ID, or similar information. It is important that you never disclose your contact information to buyers or sellers. Discussing purchases should never be taken outside Vinted’s conversation screen.
What to do if buyer not collected item Vinted?
If a buyer has not collected an item on Vinted, you can take the following steps:
1. Contact the buyer: Reach out to the buyer through Vinted’s messaging system to remind them about the pending collection and inquire about their intentions.
2. Set a deadline: Give the buyer a specific deadline by which they need to collect the item. Clearly communicate that failure to collect by the given deadline will result in cancellation of the transaction.
3. Cancel the transaction: If the buyer still does not collect the item within the specified deadline, you can cancel the transaction. Follow Vinted’s guidelines on how to cancel a transaction and initiate the cancellation process.
4. Relist the item: After canceling the transaction, you can relist the item on Vinted to make it available for other buyers to purchase.
Remember to follow Vinted’s policies and guidelines throughout this process to ensure a smooth resolution.
Are items on Vinted real?
You may also ask – Is vinted legit – Yes, items on Vinted can be real. However, as with any online marketplace, it is important to exercise caution and practice due diligence when making purchases. It is recommended to review the seller’s ratings and feedback, carefully read the item description and condition, and communicate with the seller to ensure the authenticity and quality of the items before making a purchase. Remember, fraudsters operate everywhere so it is always prudent to be wary of scammers, checking the items are the actual brand etc.
How to report someone on Vinted?
To report someone on Vinted, follow these steps:
1. Open the Vinted app or go to the Vinted website.
2. Go to the user’s profile page whom you want to report.
3. Tap on the three dots (…) or the report flag icon on their profile.
4. Select the appropriate reason for reporting from the provided options.
5. Provide any additional details or evidence to support your report, if necessary.
6. Submit the report.
Note: The exact steps may vary slightly depending on the platform you are using (app or website), but the general process remains the same.
What to do if I recieve a suspicious item from a Vinted purchase?
If you receive a suspicious item from a Vinted purchase, here are the steps you can take:
1. Document the issue: Take clear photos or videos of the item, highlighting any damage, discrepancies, or issues that make it suspicious.
2. Contact the seller: Reach out to the seller through Vinted’s messaging system to discuss the problem. Clearly explain the issue and provide evidence if necessary.
3. Open a dispute: If you cannot resolve the issue with the seller, open a dispute through Vinted’s resolution center. Provide all relevant information, including your communication with the seller, contact details, shipping label and any evidence you have.
4. Follow Vinted’s instructions: Vinted will guide you through the dispute resolution process. Cooperate with their instructions and provide any additional information or evidence they may require.
5. Escalate the issue if necessary: If you are unable to reach a resolution through Vinted’s dispute process, you may need to escalate the issue. Contact Vinted’s customer support and explain the situation. They will provide further assistance and guidance.
Remember to act promptly and provide accurate information throughout the process to increase the chances of resolving the issue successfully.
Does intellectual property laws affect Vinted purchases?
Intellectual property laws can potentially affect Vinted purchases. Vinted has policies in place to protect intellectual property rights and prohibits the sale of counterfeit or infringing items. If a seller lists a product that infringes on someone else’s intellectual property rights, Vinted may take action to remove the listing and potentially suspend or terminate the seller’s account. As a buyer, it is important to be aware of potential intellectual property issues and avoid purchasing counterfeit or infringing brand owners rights on any items sold on Vinted.
Can Vinted be trusted?
Yes, Vinted can be trusted. However, as with any online marketplace, it is important to take necessary precautions when buying or selling on the platform. Whilst Vinted is a place to purchase and advertise genuine items, make sure to read the reviews and ratings of sellers, carefully review product descriptions and photos, and use secure payment methods to ensure a safe and reliable transaction. You may wish to contact sellers with your questions and be guided by thier answers.
Is there a buyer protection fee on Vinted?
Yes, Vinted does have a buyer protection fee, which is added to the total amount paid by the buyer. This fee is a percentage of the item’s price and ensures that the buyer’s purchase is protected. It helps to cover the cost of services like secure payment processing, customer services, and the Vinted Buyer Protection guarantee.
Does Vinted sell fake stuff?
Vinted does not sell fake stuff (counterfeit products). However, as with any online marketplace, it is possible for individual sellers on Vinted to list counterfeit items (especially designer items). Vinted has policies in place to remove such listings and encourages users to check an item’s authenticity, and to report any suspicious or counterfeit items they come across.
Does a buyer need my email on Vinted?
No, a buyer does not need your personal email address to complete transactions on Vinted. Vinted, like many other online marketplaces, has built-in messaging and transaction systems designed to keep exchanges secure and confined within the platform. These systems are in place to protect both buyers and sellers by ensuring that all communications, transactions, and the exchange of personal information are monitored and secure. To confirm, you do not need to share personal details with buyers on Vinted.
How do scammers trick customers on vinted?
Scammers on Vinted, just like on other online marketplace platforms, can employ various strategies to trick customers. Vinted, known for its person-to-person transactions of second-hand clothing and accessories, is not immune to such fraudulent activities. Some of the common ways Vinted scammers might try to deceive users on are: Fake listings, counterfeit goods, phishing attempts, overpayment scams, bypassing Vinted’s payment system and by exploiting return policies.
What should I be careful of on Vinted?
When using Vinted ensure transactions and communications occur through the platform, check user ratings and reviews before dealing, and follow Vinted’s safety guidelines to avoid sharing personal or financial information directly with other users.
Is my money safe on Vinted?
Yes, your money is generally safe on Vinted due to their secure payment processing, buyer and seller protection policies, user reviews and ratings system, and customer support for resolving disputes. However, it’s important to follow safe transaction practices and be vigilant against scams.
External Reference Sites – Scammers on Vinted
- Action Fraud – https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/
- The UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre, offering advice and a platform for reporting fraud, including online marketplace scams.
- Citizens Advice – https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
- Provides free, confidential information and advice to assist people with legal, debt, consumer, and other problems, including how to deal with scams and fraudulent sellers.
- Which? – https://www.which.co.uk/consumer-rights/scams
- Offers extensive guides on spotting, avoiding, and reporting scams, as well as consumer rights information.
- Trading Standards – https://www.tradingstandards.uk/consumers
- Provides information on consumer rights, how to report dishonest trading and scams to local Trading Standards offices.
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/protect-yourself-scams
- Offers resources for understanding financial scams, how to avoid them, and what to do if you’ve been scammed.
- Money Advice Service – https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
- Provides free and impartial money advice, including how to deal with and report scams.
- UK Finance – https://www.ukfinance.org.uk/consumer-information/fraud-prevention
- Represents nearly 300 of the leading firms providing finance, banking, markets, and payments-related services in or from the UK. Offers advice on preventing financial fraud.
- Get Safe Online – https://www.getsafeonline.org/
- Provides practical advice on how to protect yourself, your computers, and mobiles device and your business against fraud, identity theft, viruses, and many other problems encountered online.
- Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) – https://www.iwf.org.uk/
- Works internationally to make the internet safer by removing images of child sexual abuse. Their work encompasses combating online exploitation and scams involving such illegal content.
- The Metropolitan Police – Fraud Alert – https://www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/prevent-personal-fraud/
- Offers advice on preventing personal fraud, including online scams, with tips that are applicable to online marketplace transactions.
These websites offer a wealth of information that can help educate and protect against scammers on Vinted and others engaging in online marketplaces from scams.
With over three decades of experience in the heart of London’s financial sector, I have dedicated my career to the pursuit of robust cybersecurity practices and IT leadership. As a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Chief Information Security Officer (C|CISO), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
My journey in the field of cybersecurity has not only been about personal growth but also about sharing my insights with others. As an international speaker, I have had the privilege of addressing audiences worldwide, discussing the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age. My passion for knowledge sharing extends to my work as an author and blogger, where I delve into the complexities of cybersecurity, offering practical advice and thought leadership.
In my role as a CISO and Head of IT, I have overseen the development and implementation of comprehensive information security and IT strategies. My focus has always been on creating resilient systems capable of withstanding the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
My Master’s degree in Cybersecurity has provided a solid academic foundation, which, when combined with my practical experience, allows me to approach cybersecurity from a holistic perspective.
I am always open to connecting with other professionals in the field, sharing knowledge, and exploring new opportunities. Let’s secure the digital world together.