Identity Theft Scam Alert - Phishing
Featured Writer: Barbara
Woodcox
Internet criminals have come up with a
very deceptive scam that no law abiding person would ever imagine. The scam is
referred to as phishing by the FTC because identity
thieves have found tricky ways
to "phish" for your personal information.
Through e-mails and pop up windows,
thieves pose as companies that you do business with or
they pretend to represent government agencies. They
claim that they need personal information to update your
file. They will try to get information such as your
social security number, bank account numbers, credit
card numbers, etc. If they get the information they
seek, they will use it to rob your accounts or to set up
new accounts in your name. What is especially deceiving
is that they will try to direct you to websites that
look authentic, but the websites are bogus-- some of
them even have fake security certificates!
Here are some tips to avoid becoming
a victim of the phishing scam:
-
Never give out personal information over the internet or
through e-mail. Government agencies and legitimate companies will
contact you by phone or snail mail if they need information. They won't
send e-mails or pop up messages. Note: If anyone calls for information by
phone, tell them you will call back using a number you know is legitimate.
-
Never open e-mail attachments or files. They could carry
viruses, adware or spyware.
-
The FTC suggests
installing an anti virus program that protects against both
older and newer viruses. The program should update
automatically. They also suggest setting up a firewall to
protect against prying eyes and unwanted communications
between the crook's computer and your
computer.
-
If you receive an e-mail asking for personal
information, forward it to
spam@uce.gov. If you are a victim
of phishing, report the crime to your local law enforcement
agency and to the
FTC.
