Phishing is a criminal act in which social engineering (Techniques used by cyber-criminals to trick consumers into indulging private information which could result in the compromise of their personal identity information (identity theft)) is used to steal personal identity information usually resulting in financial loss. One of the tactics employed by this type of cyber-criminal is to use 'email spoofing' (Forging an email header to make it look like the email came from another source) to lure consumers to counterfeit websites created with the sole purpose of tricking recipients into revealing financial data such as credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, social security numbers and other personal identity information.

How To Protect Against Phishing Scams

• Purchase gifts through well-known online retailers that disclose full contact information (email address, phone number, physical address etc..).
   
• Always ensure that online financial transactions are secure by checking the bottom right corner of the browser window. A small yellow lock, or green key will appear for secure sites.
   
• Check your bank statements often and investigate suspicious charges.
   
• Do not give out personal or financial information in response to unsolicited email. Do not click any links in any e-mail when conducting financial transactions.
   
• If you think you've been phished, immediately go to www.consumer.gov/idtheft.
   
• Do not fall for a sob story. Criminals will use guilt to convince you to donate.
   
• Always donate to charities directly, even after receiving emails requesting donations.
   
• When participating in online auctions, check the seller's references and feedback ratings. If purchasing a high-value item, consider using an online escrow service.
   
• Do not use your primary email address when shopping since you may inadvertently be signed up for excessive newsletters or marketing emails. Use a disposable email account if possible.
   
• Do not venture online without securing your PC. A software firewall is essential, and antivirus, anti-spyware are also critical. Don't forget to keep the software (and your operating system) up-to-date.
   

Anti-Phishing Software

Microsoft Windows Internet Explorer 7
Firefox 2.0
Netcraft Toolbar
Firefox with Google Toolbar
GeoTrust TrustWatch Toolbar


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