ID Fraud | Bankruptcy


E-Mail & Internet Fraud
Be vigilant - Don't fall prey to e-mail or internet fraud

Phishing/Pharming: These are fraudulent e-mails that appear “normal”. They look like they come from your credit union or a government agency and they ask you to verify personal information after you are directed to another website. Or, this would be an e-mail that directs you to a copycat Website where your information is stolen. Once these crooks have your information, they can use it to commit fraud using your name.

What Can I Do?

• If you receive an e-mail that tells you to confirm certain information, do not click on the e-mail link. Instead, call or use a Web site address you know to be legitimate.
• If you are going to submit personal information through a Web site, look for the “lock” icon on the browser status bar, or look for “https” in the Web address.
• Report suspicious activity to the Internet Fraud Complaint Center www.ifccfbi.gov

Malware: Short for malicious software, and also known as “spyware”, it is often included in spam e-mails. This malware then takes controls of your computer and forwards your personal data to crooks.

What Can I Do?
Install and update regularly:

• Anti-virus software
• Anti-malware programs
• Firewalls
• Operating System patches and updates

And, remember, software these days allows crooks to set up websites that look really good and legitimate. Don’t judge by initial appearances.