Phishing
Phishing is a scam where Internet fraudsters send spam or pop-up messages to leak out personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims.It is a method of online identity theft. FBI called phishing the “hottest, and most troubling, new scam on the Internet.” The term phishing comes from the fact that Internet scammers are using sophisticates lures as they ‘fish’ for Internet user’s financial information.
People try to “hook” you when some one contacts you unexpectedly and asks for your personal information such as your account number, an account password, credit card number, or social security number. The sender might ask you to confirm that you have a relationship with the company. You might sometimes get warned that your account will be shut down unless you ‘reconfirm’ your financial information. Some links sent to your e-mail asks you to provide personal information.
To avoid being a victum, don’t reply to emails or pop-up messages that ask for your personal information and don’t click on links in the message. Use anti-virus, anti-spyware software, and firewall. Update them regularly. Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you get them to check for unauthorized charges. Be cautious about opening any attachment or downloading files from emails you receive. Forward phishing emails to spam@uce.gov or reportphishing@antiphishing.org.
MLA
“HowStuffWorks “How Phishing Works”.” 8 Dec 2008 <http://computer.howstuffworks.com/phishing.htm>.
“Phishing – OnGuard Online.” 8 Dec 2008 <http://www.onguardonline.gov/topics/phishing.aspx>.
“Stop Spam Here – Phishing.” 8 Dec 2008 <http://www.stopspamhere.ca/phishing-e.html>.
“Word Spy – phishing.” 8 Dec 2008 <http://www.wordspy.com/words/phishing.asp>.
