Phishing is a tool used by thieves to lure unsuspecting users into providing their confidential information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity. One example of phishing is fake email that closely resembles a known entity. Within the deceptive email, there are one or more links which, once clicked, redirect the individual to a fake website that closely resembles the legitimate website. Once at the illegitimate website, the individual is requested to enter usernames, passwords, account details, and/or other confidential information, which are then captured by the perpetrator. Once this information is provided, one’s confidential information is compromised. The best defense against this type of scam is education. Here are a few tips to help you safely navigate the online environment:

• Do not open emails that are from people you do not know.
• Don’t provide your username, password, account number, or any other personally identifiable information in an email.
• If asked to provide such information via an email, do not do so by clicking on a website link in the email. Rather, close the email, open the web browser, and enter the trusted website address.
• If you are unsure, call the firm that purportedly sent the email.
• Update your web browser to the latest version to utilize current phishing protection (the browser will analyze the website and compare it to known or suspected phishing sites and provide the user with a warning).
• Report suspicious emails to your Internet service provider.

We hope this information assists you in safeguarding your confidential data.