Phishing

Phishing is what it sounds like: scammers throw a wide net (billions of fraudulent emails) in an attempt at “hooking” a few people. In this case, the trophy is your password, username, and personal information. Once they get this information, it could be quickly used to access your accounts. The term phishing refers to a fraudulent attempt to obtain account information done via email.

Don’t be a victim. Learn to spot the hallmarks of phishing. Phishing may have the following hallmarks:

• Unexpected email that warns of some consequence (like account suspension). This may have a “clickable” link that takes you to a “lookalike” site.
• Poorly worded or confusing terminology in the text.
• Promise of reward or refund, with a clickable link to a “lookalike” site.
• Lack of personal information in the email. Things like account details are very generic.

Scammers may research a business more directly, and even target people by name. This is called “spear phishing.” No matter the form, precautions are still the same.

If you get a message via email, text, popup or phone that asks you to call a phone number to update your account or give your personal information to access a refund – don’t respond and cease communication. When in doubt, call the number on the back of your credit or debit card, or on your financial statements to confirm the information.

If you believe you may have compromised your account information, please immediately report it to our Support team at 952.893.6868.

To learn more about phishing, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website Onguardonline.gov.