PHISHING - Protecting your credit Information Online

PHISHING - Your Credit Security

Protecting Your Credit Information When Online
 

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a technique used to gain personal information for the purposes of Identity Theft. Fraudulent email that appears to come from financial institutions or legitimate businesses is the most frequent method. They contain authentic logos and text designed to fool the recipient into providing personal data such as account numbers, credit card numbers and social security numbers.

Most often the email states that the recipients attention is needed immediately and provides a clickable link where the individual must go to verify their personal information. Once enough personal data has been gained, the thieves can make credit card purchases or even steal a complete identity.

How to Avoid Phishing Scams:

• Never click on inks in emails you think may be fraudulent as it may contain a virus.

• Use a SPAM Filter.

• Use a reliable Anti-Virus program.

• Use a Firewall program.

• Use an Anti-SpyWare program.

• Keep software updated (operating system and browser.)

• Always look for https:// and on sites that require your personal information.

• Be aware of fraudulent activity on the Internet.

• Check & monitor your credit report regularly.

• Delete email (without opening) from anyone you don't recognize.

• Don't be intimated by emails that threaten consequences such as termination of service if you do not follow the instructions contained in the email.

If you think an email you receive is fraudulent, and that you may be a victim of a phishing scam, contact your financial institution(s) immediately and monitor your accounts closely.

You can report fraudulent emails to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting
www.consumer.gov/idtheft or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT.
 

Additional Sources of Information:
http://www.fraudwatchinternational.com/internetfraud/phishing/protect.htm

http://www.fraudwatchinternational.com/internetfraud/phishing.htm
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/alerts/phishingalrt.htm
http://www.federalreserve.gov/BoardDocs/Press/other/2004/20040908/default.htm

Direct Advice: scams@fraudwatchinternational.com