Phishing - What you should know about it.
The word "phishing" comes from the analogy that Internet scammers use e-mail lures to "fish" for passwords and financial data from the sea of Internet users.
Phishing schemes start with an urgent e-mail that tries to trick you into visiting a bogus Web site and submitting personal, financial, or password data. Even though the e-mail often looks like the real deal, complete with authentic logos and working Web links, it's a clever fake. The Web site where you're told to enter your account information is also bogus. In some instances, really devious phishers direct you to the genuine Web site, then pop up a window over the site that captures your personal information.
The exact subject of the e-mail can range anywhere from warnings about identity theft to announcements about unclaimed prize money. Your action is always requested, and involves logging into your account to "verify your account information" or to "prevent a security threat" or to "claim your prize money". Consequences are often outlined if immediate action is not taken, like cancelled accounts or suspension of services.
Please know that Provincial Alliance will never send out e-mails asking you to provide personal information. If you receive such a request, do not reply or click on any links in the e-mail, and immediately report it to us at 1-877-588-2257.
Tips on how to Spot and Avoid Phishing Scams
- Protect your computer with anti-virus software, spyware filters, e-mail filters and firewall programs.
- Contact your financial institution immediately and report your suspicions.
- Do not reply to any e-mail that requests your personal information. Deleting the e-mail is the best preventative measure to avoid falling victim to a phishing scheme.
- Do not click on any link in an e-mail that you suspect may be fraudulent. The link could take you to a fake Web site or initiate the installation of unwanted software onto your computer.
- Do not call any phone number listed in the e-mail. These may be fake as well.
- Look for misspelled words. Look for these in the message or in the hyperlink if one is provided.
- Always follow safe computing practices.
How to Report Suspicious E-mail
If you receive an e-mail purporting to have come from Provincial Alliance Credit Union that you are suspicious of, please contact us immediately at:
Phone: 1-877-588-2257
E-mail: eblyskis@cuonline.on.ca
