Don’t Feed The Phish
November 12, 2008 by Antivirus Ware.comPhishing is an insidious form of electronic scam. Here’s how it works. The phisher first creates an official looking email that is constructed to look like it comes from a trusted source. This trusted source could be just about any company you might have an account with.
For example, the spammer might create a fake email that claims that PayPal needs to update your contact information. They will provide you with a link to a form at the PayPal site. The idea is, you must fill out the form to update your personal information. Typically the will ask for information that will include your credit card information.
The trick, of course, is that the information doesn’t go to PayPal. It goes to someone whose purpose is to steal your identity. Once they steal your identity, then they can run up charges on your credit card. They may even apply for a credit card in your name!
There are some simple ways of avoiding phishing schemes. The simplest, of course, involves not clicking the links. If you get an email from a trusted site regarding your account, go directly to the account’s site and log in there. Don’t click the link, not now, not ever.
Phishing attacks can also originate from bogus software, spyware and malware. The best way to protect yourself is to use a good antivirus program. You can keep your computer safe by using an anti virus software with a solid reputation.
