Don't Give out Personal Information

Phishing is an online con game where Internet criminals, called phishers, try to steal your identity by sending an email claiming to be real business and asking you to give up private information.

How phishing works:

The email links to a false Web site where you are asked to “update” your personal information (passwords, credit card, social security, and bank account numbers). If you type your information into the site, the phisher steals it. Phishing emails usually look like they’re from a bank, credit card company, PayPal, eBay, or anywhere else you may have registered for an account.

Who’s at risk?

Anyone with an e-mail address. If your e-mail has been made public (by posting in forums or on a Web site), it is more likely to get phished because the e-mail address can be saved by spiders that search the Internet and grab as many e-mail addresses as they can.

Make sure you don’t get phished:

• If you receive a suspicious email and are not sure what to do, call the phone number listed on your official bill. Do not call the phone number listed in the email.
• Never email out your credit card account numbers, social security number, PIN, credit card security code, mother’s maiden name or passwords.
• Only Shop at Reliable Web Sites
• Don't Open Email Attachments from Unknown Sources
• Keep Your Computer Safe

If your identity has been stolen:

1. Contact Your Credit Card Company: Call the number listed on the back of your card. Report the crime and close your account immediately. Most companies will take the charges off your bill if you call right away.

1. Contact Your Bank: Your bank should refund your money if it’s already been taken out of your account. Ask your bank if you should close your accounts. Create new passwords.

1. Call the Police: File a police report with your local police department. Keep a copy for your credit card company or bank. If the local police can’t help, try the state police.

Remember to Monitor Your Credit Report and Credit Card.

Explain Phishing to Kids

While most kids don’t have credit cards to spend money, they might click on links in phishing pop ups or emails. Clicking could result in viruses being downloaded onto your computer. Teach your child how to close the pop up by clicking the X box in the upper right corner. Explain that links in a pop up or an email from a stranger should never be clicked on, even if it looks like a fun online poll.