How to avoid Phishing Scams

Even if you've never heard the term "phishing," chances are that you've been a target of a phishing scam - a fraudulent e-mail or Web site that tries to fool you into filling out forms that could be used to steal your account information.

You know those e-mail messages that seem to come from your bank? Or maybe from an online store, or some other financial institution? Complete with a familiar logo?

The messages that contain a link that appears to go to a legitimate Web site?

Sometimes they look so real, but they're not. Click on that link and it could cost you. A lot.

According to the Consumer Reports "State of the Net 2006" study, phishing attacks are as common today as they were last year, but with one disturbing difference: They've cost consumers five times as much money.

Phishing scams attempt to lure victims into visiting phony Web sites where criminals can collect passwords, or sensitive personal or financial information. Once criminals get what they're after, they may use the victim's account with the online store or bank, drain money from the victim's account, or open new accounts in the victim's name.

If you know anyone who's been a victim of ID theft, you know it's not pretty. Here's a picture of what a phishing e-mail might look like.

The address provided in the link may look genuine and can easily tempt you to click on it if you aren't vigilant. If you hover over a link with your mouse, you can often see the real address listed down at the bottom of the screen on the task bar.

How to help prevent phishing

Because phishing scams originate in your e-mail inbox, but can send you to fraudulent Web sites, it's important to use good practices and new filters in both your e-mail program and your Web browser.

Good practices to help prevent phishing scams

1. Never click links in e-mail messages from businesses. If you think that the e-mail is legitimate, you should still enter the URL of the Web site directly into your Web browser
2. Use SPAM Filter Software
3. Use Anti-Virus Software
4. Use a Personal Firewall
5. Keep Software Updated (operating systems and web browsers)
6. Always look for "https://" and padlock on web sites that require personal information
7. Don't enter personal or financial information into pop-up windows
8. Keep your computer clean from Spyware
9. Check and monitor your bank & credit card statements
10. Seek Advice - if you are unsure, ask: scams@fraudwatchinternational.com