Internet and Computer Identity Theft Threats from Phishing Attacks
Sitting in the middle of the lake, casting a baited line into the water and retrieving it slowly, hoping to attract a big fish is one of the country’s favorite pastimes.
However, sitting in an office, sending out artificial bait to thousands of computer users is one of the lucrative pastimes of criminals. It’s their reality as they phish the Internet for identities to steal.
One of the most common methods used to steal identity information from consumers is to create a website that emulates a real company (especially financial companies).
After the creation, they then send an email to thousands of people warning them their information may have been compromised. Only if they respond within a certain time and verify the information, the account will be closed, or their money will be frozen.
Nothing scares people more than the possibility of losing their money. They click on the link and readily offer the information. Suddenly, they find themselves a victim of what the letter was warning them about.
To protect against these phishing scams, never click on a link contained in an email or on a website! Legitimate companies will never ask for personal information over the telephone. They will rarely send email alerts about accounts, unless the consumer has requested it.
Further, many phishing emails may have information about companies with which no business has ever been conducted. These emails (as well as those seeking information) should be deleted and ignored. If there is no account with the company, no money will be lost unless the victim gives their information and permission.
Tags: aluminum mailboxes, computer identity, identity theft prevention, identity theft protection, locking mailbox, phishing scams, prevent mail theft, theft prevention