Posted on February 18, 2005 at 17:29:44:
“Phishing” is internet slang for fake e-mail that asks recipient for passwords or PINs, Social Security or credit-card numbers of other sensitive personal information. The scammers purport to represent your bank or brokerage, a credit-card company, or even a government agency. They use authentic-looking logos and graphics and links to pages of bonafide Web sites.
Because they know people are suspicious, scammers invite them to “safeguard” their accounts, explaining that the account may be suspended temporarily if the personal details are not confirmed.
Protect yourself. Beware of e-mail that requests personal information. Leave suspicious Web sites immediately. Before submitting any personal or financial info on line, look for the padlock image on your browser’s status bar and log off after completing your transaction. Never download software or files from an unknown source. Review your account statements as they come in.