Term of the Day: “Vishing”
Computer users are becoming very familiar with “phishing,” an act of receiving an e-mail that seems to be from a legitimate source. The recipient is lead to believe there is a problem with their bank account as represented by the fake document. The victim is then asked to click on a link which asks for personal or private information.
The anti-fraud command center reports it has shuttered more than 10,000 phishing attacks. This large number can be multiplied by $1,200 (the average amount lost to a phishing attack). You can see phishing is still a major though declining problem.
We aren’t safe for long, because of the introduction of “vishing.” Vishing shares some similarity to phishing in that is originates from an e-mail sent to the intended target. The e-mail claims there is a problem with the e-mail respondent’s account. Rather than responding by e-mail, the message directs the intended mark to call a telephone number. The caller is then sent through an automated voice prompted system that requests information such as card number, PIN number, and even Social Security Number.
People need to be aware that this next big identity theft problem exists and has been somewhat effective. Most banks will call you directly if there is a problem with your account rather than notifying you by e-mail. They will never ask for a PIN number or your Social Security Number unless you are initiating a new account.
Be careful and you will avoid being among the first to be swindled by this new twist on a very effective scam.
The anti-fraud command center reports it has shuttered more than 10,000 phishing attacks. This large number can be multiplied by $1,200 (the average amount lost to a phishing attack). You can see phishing is still a major though declining problem.
We aren’t safe for long, because of the introduction of “vishing.” Vishing shares some similarity to phishing in that is originates from an e-mail sent to the intended target. The e-mail claims there is a problem with the e-mail respondent’s account. Rather than responding by e-mail, the message directs the intended mark to call a telephone number. The caller is then sent through an automated voice prompted system that requests information such as card number, PIN number, and even Social Security Number.
People need to be aware that this next big identity theft problem exists and has been somewhat effective. Most banks will call you directly if there is a problem with your account rather than notifying you by e-mail. They will never ask for a PIN number or your Social Security Number unless you are initiating a new account.
Be careful and you will avoid being among the first to be swindled by this new twist on a very effective scam.
posted by skgroner | 9:32 AM
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