1.  The number of “Phishing” scams being sent increases weekly; all Internet
     users are subject to “Phishing” attacks.

 

2.  This scam comes in the form of an e-mail that “appears” to be sent by a well-known
     financial institution or corporation, and will usually include official logos and look
     authentic.

 

3.  The body of the “Phishing” e-mail may request that you “update,” “validate,” or
     “verify” some personal information immediately, or your account may be deactivated
     or terminated. 

 

4.  The purpose of the “Phishing” e-mail is to get you to disclose personal information
     such as social security numbers, account numbers, passwords, UserIDs, mother’s
     maiden name, etc.

 

5.  Some e-mails may also contain links that take you to an “official-looking” but
     illegitimate site.

 

6.  How to protect yourself:

A.  Do not reply to the e-mail.

B.  Do not type or paste any information into the e-mail.

C.  Do not click on any links contained within the e-mail.

D.  Do contact the legitimate institution and/or the appropriate

      help desk/system security officer immediately.  They may

      request that you send the suspect email to them.

E.  Delete the email after following directions in 6D above.

             

7. If you have already replied to any of these e-mails with personal or private
    information, you should contact the legitimate institution by telephone immediately.