The scam of “Phishing” is hooking a lot of unsuspecting consumers.  The term refers to email messages that fraudulent individuals send out by the thousands in hopes of “hooking” an unsuspecting consumer, and tricking them into giving up valuable personal information.

Here’s how it usually works: you receive an email that appears to be from a reputable company, often one you may recognize or even do business with, such as your bank or credit card company.  The email will often warn you that there is a serious problem or security breech and that you need to contact them immediately to safeguard your account.  They will then instruct you do click on a link to take you to their website.  This site may look like the legitimate company’s website, but it isn’t.  At the phony site, you’ll be asked to verify such information as your account number, your social security number, your password, or other personal information.  If you supply the information you could very well find yourself a victim of identity theft.

Tip for Avoiding the Phishing Hook

• Never provide information in response to an unsolicited request!  This goes for emails or phone calls.  Phishers have been known to call consumers pretending to be from the victim’s bank, and asking to verify information.  If you didn’t initiate the communication, don’t answer it! 
•  Never click on links in an email that you suspect is fraudulent.  It could contain a virus that could damage your computer.
•  Don’t be intimidated by emails or callers who warn of dire consequence if you don’t give them the information they are asking for.  They’re relying on throwing you into a panic to make their scam work.  So keep cool.
•  If you think such a request may be legitimate, call your bank yourself.  You can find legitimate phone numbers on your monthly statements or in the phone book.
• Never provide your password over the phone or the internet in response to an unsolicited request.
• Carefully check all your statements each month as you receive them.  Make sure all the transactions listed are legitimate ones that you have made.

How to Get Off the Phishing Hook

If you suspect you’re a victim of fraud or identity theft…

• Call your bank, credit card issuer, or financial institution and alert them of the situation.
• Contact one of the three major credit bureaus and ask whether you need to place a fraud alert on your file.  This will help prevent the fraudsters from opening any new accounts in your name.  Here are the toll-free numbers for each credit bureaus fraud divisions:

Equifax - 800-525-6285

Experian - 888-397-3742

TransUnion - 800-680-7289

• Report phishing attempts to the Federal Trade Commission by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT, or by visiting their website at www.consumer.gov/idtheft.