Below is a summary of tips published by the Federal Trade Commission that can help you avoid a Phishing Scam.

If you receive an email or a pop-up in your browser asking for personal information, do not reply. If the email contains a link, do not click on it or copy and paste it into your browser.

If you receive an email asking you to call a number to verify account information, do not call. If you are concerned call the number on your official statement.

Keep your computer updated with all of the latest patches. Run anti-virus and anti-spyware software and turn on your Windows or Macintosh Firewall.

Don¹t email personal or financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information. If you submit it via a webpage make sure that the URL starts with "https:" (the "s" stands for "secure").

Be cautious about opening any attachment or downloading any files from emails you receive, regardless of who sent them. These files can contain viruses or other software that can weaken your computer¹s security.

Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them to check for unauthorized charges. If your statement is late by more than a couple of days, call your credit card company or bank to confirm your billing address and account balances.

Forward spam that is phishing for information to spam@uce.gov  and to the company, bank, or organization impersonated in the phishing email. Most organizations have information on their websites about where to report problems.

To view the entire article go to
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt127.shtm

If you have any questions about this Tech Tip, please contact the Helpdesk at 715.394.8300.