Phishing is an attempt to fraudulently acquire personal information, such as usernames, bank account numbers, passwords and credit card details, by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication.
Banks, eBay, PayPal are common targets. Phishing is typically carried out by email or instant messaging and often directs users to enter details at a website. The website will look authentic, but in reality is a mock-up page. Often - when you place your cursor over the link in the email - you will see that the link actually leads to an IP address number - NOT the address of the financial institution the supposedly has sent you the email.
Be suspicious if:
You receive a bulk email from your bank, PayPal or eBay regarding your personal information. The email will ask you for your login information - NEVER send your login information via email or instant messenger.
Be wary of generic greetings - such as "Dear Valued Member", "Important Message for PayPal Account Holders".
Be cautious of anything that says - IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED. Your account will be closed if you do not contact us whithin 24 hours.
For further information on protecting yourself from phishing - please visit the NETWORK SECURITY JOURNAL.
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Additional user information may be found via the StopSign KNOWLEDGE BASE.