 |
|
|
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
|
PHISHING SCAMS
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
Last Updated: Thursday, 13-Mar-2008 13:13:03 EDT
|