The Attorney General offers the following tips, compiled from advice offered by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), to help you avoid being victimized by "phishing" scams:

If you get an email or pop-up message that asks for personal or financial information, do not reply. And, do not click on the link in the message, either. Legitimate businesses don't ask for this information via email. If in doubt, contact the business directly.

Use anti-virus software and a firewall, and keep them up to date. Look for anti-virus software that recognizes current viruses as well as older ones; that effectively reverses the damage; and that updates automatically.

Never email personal or financial information because email is not a secure method of transmitting information. Provide information only if you initiate the transaction and the website you are at shows that it is secure. Look for a URL that begins with "https:" or contains a lock icon on the status bar. Remember though that some phishers have forged security icons so be alert and if you're not sure that the company is legitimate, don't provide your information.

Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them to check for unauthorized charges. If you don't receive your statements, call the company or bank to see if your address has been changed without your knowledge.

Be cautious before opening any attachment or downloading any files from emails even if you know the sender. Files can contain viruses or other software than can weaken your computer's security.

Forward phishing emails to the company, bank or organization impersonated in the phishing email but be careful not to open the email. Or, notify them with a phone call.

Share these tips with your family and be sure that your children understand your instructions.

Change your passwords and PINS regularly.

Regularly monitor your credit report. Beginning September 1, you can order a free report credit report through www.annualcreditreport.com; by calling 877-322-8228 or writing to Annual Credit Report Request Service, P. O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

If you have provided personal or financial information in response to a ""phishing"" email, print a copy of our ID Theft Victim Kit from this website which will give you a step by step guide on what to do if you are a victim and will help you report and document the incident.