Phishing involves emailing a person or business claiming to be a legitimate provider of some sort. Spoof bank emails are popular, where the email is disguised to resemble a communication from a bank. Thousands of unwary individuals and businesses have fallen foul of these, inadvertently handing over private information that fraudsters use for identity theft.
So how do you spot a phishing scam? Marcus Evans (http://www.marcusevans.com/
Phishing scams take several forms. As well as banks, they can mimic companies you regularly do business with, as well as social networking sites. They might look as though they're from someone you know – a colleague, friend or supplier of some kind. This is called spear phishing.
Online phishing scams can also lead you into making a phone call. Phone phishing scams connect you to a fake customer support person or automated system. They will try to take your account number, PIN and passwords. Some phone phishers even claim that they'll close your account if you don't hand the information over.
Some include accurate logos and corporate colours. These are copied from legitimate business websites without their knowledge or permission. Others include highly convincing details about your personal circumstances, which the fraudsters cleverly lift from social networks. Finally, watch out for links. If you are at all suspicious don't even open the email. If you've opened it, don't follow the link. And if you've followed the link, don't enter any personal information!
“The single best thing you can do is be vigilant.” concludes Daniel Leu. “Caution is the name of the game. Always take the time and care to check emails before opening them. If in doubt, delete.”
