How to Prevent Phishing

Phishing: Avoid Getting Caught

Identity theft is on the rise, perhaps due to a slow economy (forcing more people to turn to illegal methods to make money) or advancing technology (making it easier to do so), either way, it is becoming more common. With the amount of personal and financial data that is shared over the internet, your online security should be a top priority.

One way criminals can obtain your personal information is by “phishing.” Put simply, phishing is the practice of deceptively obtaining your personal information by posing as a legitimate entity. For example, you may receive an e-mail that claims that your “account is in jeopardy.” These e-mails look and read like they are legitimate. That is exactly what the sender wants you to believe. Often the phisher will create authentic-looking company logos that look vaguely familiar, or may even steal real company logos, like from PayPal and claim to be these organizations. The e-mail will usually inform you that your account and personal information has been compromised and there are certain steps you need to take to protect it. They may tell you things like “if you do not take any action your account will be suspended.” Often these directions will ask you to click on a hyperlink and verify that your information is correct. It is the goal of the sender for you to verify your information so they will then have all the information they need to scam you or steal your identity. They play on your emotions and use scare tactics to get you to give them the data they want. Unfortunately, once they are in possession of your information your problems will only be beginning.

Another term that is used to describe this type of e-mail is a “spoof” email. At some point almost everybody receives one of these communications. It is important that you learn to recognize them as phishing e-mails and avoid following their directions. You may also encounter this type of phishing on a website that appears legit. Regardless, you should always be suspicious of anyone requesting confirmation of personal or financial data over the internet, even if the company looks familiar. If you are in doubt about any of your accounts you should contact the company personally and speak with a representative about your concerns.

The best way to safeguard your information is to invest in an excellent spyware remover. Many anti-spyware programs come with e-mail protection built into the program, offering the ability determine which e-mails are legitimate and which ones are scams. Anti-spyware programs can be difficult to understand so it is important for you to find one that is user-friendly but still offers advanced protection. PC Tools’ Spyware Doctor is a highly recommended spyware blocker that is easy to use and provides you with peace of mind. Once downloaded and installed, it will identify, eliminate, and then continue to block all types of spyware. Email Guard is an optional plug-in that protects your inbox against phishing. It is constantly on the job detecting all types of scam opportunities and preventing them from getting through to you.

Identity theft can be can have a devastating effect on both your personal and financial situation. It is important to protect yourself against any online threats. Identifying phishing emails from the get-go is one way to reduce your risk. Never follow a phishers instructions and reveal any personal information. Your best bet to protect yourself against phishing is to install a first-rate spyware remover such as Spyware Doctor. You will eliminate any potential current threats and prevent any in the future.