Protect Yourself Against Email Fraud
Email fraud, or “phishing” is one of the fastest growing forms of online fraud. “Phishing” refers to the way that internet scammers “phish” for sensitive information, like your financial data. Once your private information is obtained, it is used to make unauthorized withdrawals from your account, open new accounts in your name, and commit other crimes.
Minimize your risk of online fraud by recognizing “phishing” attempts and taking these precautions:
Phishers may send emails to you that appear to be from a legitimate bank or other financial institution. These emails may have subject lines like, “Update Your Account Information” or “Verify Your Identity.”
The email will usually warn of a problem with your account that needs immediate attention. These emails will often threaten to suspend your account unless information is provided immediately, and will include a link to a phony website. This fraudulent website will mimic the look of a legitimate bank website in order to trick you into surrendering confidential information like your account number, password, and Social Security number.
Your bank will NEVER ask you to confirm or release personal information by email.
Legitimate banks and financial institutions will never ask you for your Social Security number, birth date, account numbers, or other personal information by email. However, if you contact your bank by phone, they may request that you provide them with personal information to confirm your identify before they release information about your account to you.
Protect yourself by adhering to the following guidelines:
- Never provide your name, bank account, credit card or Social Security numbers, or other identifying information in response to an unsolicited email request. If you believe the request may be legitimate, contact your bank yourself using contact information that you have verified.
- Never send your account number, secret code, or password by email.
- Do not open emails from unknown senders and delete immediately. Never open attachments or click on any links contained in these emails; this may release a virus in your computer to track your personal information.
- Use the most current versions of web browsers to ensure that your computer has the most up-to-date security software.
Related:
Students, employees beware of phony bank e-mails
Avoid "Phishing" Tips
'Phishing' scams: How to avoid getting hooked
