What is Phishing?
Phishing is the sending of an email in an attempt to lure an unsuspected user to a fraudulent website to steal private information (i.e.: usernames, passwords, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, etc.)
The email directs the user to a fake website claiming to be a legitimate enterprise (i.e.: popular social website, bank, auction house or email account provider) where they are asked to update personal information.
Common phrases to look out for:
· “Verify your account”
· “You have won the lottery”
· “If you don’t respond within 48 hours, your account will be closed”
· “Click the link below to gain access to your account”
· "We suspect an unauthorized transaction on your account. To ensure that your account is not compromised, please click the link below and confirm your identity."
Don’t Fall Victim:
· If you have any doubt whether an email is legitimate contact the company immediately to confirm and clarify the request.
· Never click, download files, or reply to links in an unsolicited email. You risk downloading malicious Trojan Horse spyware providing hackers direct access to all the personal data stored on your computer.
· Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, as well as a firewall and update them regularly.
· Don’t email personal or financial information.
How to report a Phishing Scam:
If you received spam that is phishing for information – forward it to:
· (Federal Trade Commission)
· Inform the company or organization. Most organizations have information on their websites about where to report problems.
· (Anaheim City School District)
If you believe you’ve been scammed:
· https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/ - File a report with Federal Trade Commission.
· www.naag.org – State Attorney General.
· (APWG Anti-Phishing Working Group www.antiphishing.org)
How do you find out if your identity was stolen?
Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them to check for unauthorized charges. If your statement is late by more than a couple of days, call your credit card company or bank to confirm your billing address and account balances.
Early detection of a potential identity theft can make a big difference. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity by routinely monitoring your credit reports:
1) Equifax: 800-685-1111; www.equifax.com
2) Experian: 888-EXPERIAN (888-397-3742); www.experian.com
3) TransUnion: 800-916-8800; www.transunion.com