What is Phishing?

Phishing is an attempt to criminally and fraudulently acquire sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords and credit card details, by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. eBay, PayPal and online banks are common targets.

Phishing is typically carried out by email or instant messaging, and often directs users to enter details at a website, although phone contact has also been used. Phishing is an example of social engineering techniques used to fool users. Attempts to deal with the growing number of reported phishing incidents include legislation, user training, public awareness, and technical measures.

Phishing Safety Tips

There are a few steps you can take to help protect yourself from being caught in a phishing trap.

• Use a browser with phishing protection (free)
• Use a content filtering program that blocks phishing sites (like K9 Web Protection)
• Never click on a link in an e-mail to take you to a financial website. Enter the address yourself.

Your bank or other financial institution should never ask for confirmation of your personal information in an e-mail. If for any reason you believe that it may be valid, directly type the address to the desired website into your browser and login. If there is a valid reason to be contacted, you should see that information there.

Links in e-mails can appear safe and correct but lead you somewhere else entirely. Additional Resources

• Firefox web browser Phishing Protection
• Microsoft Internet Explorer Phishing Protection
• Content Filtering Software