Phishy Scams and Flim Flams
Phishing (pronounced like fishing) is an internet scam that can drive you nuts. The most common form of phishing is by email. The email appears to be from your bank or PayPal, a retailer like Amazon, an auction site like eBay, or a government agency like the FBI or IRS, just to name a few. The email typically asks you to confirm personal information with a threat that your account will be closed if you fail to do so, informs you that an item has been ordered in your name, or alerts you that your personal information has been lost or compromised. Don't believe them for a minute, and importantly, don't click on any links within that email. The only action you should take is to delete the email.
The phisher's link takes you to a fake Web site that looks just like the real site of the company or agency they're impersonating. Any personal information entered at the fake site goes directly to identity thieves who will target you again and again. If you're not sure about the legitimacy of any email message asking for information, locate the company Web site via a search engine then contact them by phone.
Phishing can also occur by phone. In this scenario, you typically get a call from someone pretending to be a representative from your bank, one of your credit cards, or a law enforcement agency. They will again ask for your personal information under the guise of some urgent need, but again, don't give it out. Instead, ask for that person's name and phone number then hang up. Then contact the actual bank, credit card company or law enforcement agency and inquire as to whether or not such contact was for legitimate reasons. There are times when banks and credit card companies may need to contact you by phone, such as when they notice an unusual purchase pattern, but they will only ask if you made a particular purchase or transaction; they will not ask you for an account number or other personal information.
A notorious example in the category of flim flam or scam is the Nigerian email. This unsolicited email or letter will come from some high government official asking if you or your company can help them move tens of millions of dollars out of Nigeria or some other African country. Just delete this email — don't reply because they will only try to rob you again and again. Another popular scam is an email notifying you that you've won a lottery or a big million-dollar prize. Don't fall for this one either and don't reply, just delete it. Believe me, there is no lottery and no big-dollar money prize. Remember that if the offer comes to you by spam (unsolicited email), then it's a scam or flim flam just waiting for you to take the bait.
As a preventative measure, always protect your computer with spam filters, anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a firewall. I know it is a lot to manage but these days it's necessary. The advantages these applications offer are many:
- A spam filter will help reduce the number of phishing emails you get.
- Anti-virus software scans all incoming emails and attachments for alien files and known viruses.
- Anti-spyware looks for illicit programs that have installed themselves on your computer in order to track your online activities without your knowledge. This software can protect you against pharming (another devious trick used by phishers).
- Firewalls work to prevent hackers from entering your computer. This is especially important with a DSL or cable modem connection because your computer is on the Internet whenever it's turned on.
Also remember to keep each of these protective programs up-to-date as efficiently as you can.
Your life online can be fun and informative but always be on guard against all unsolicited emails. To be on the safe side, delete all spam that gets through your filters. Don't believe any unexpected email that asks to verify personal information. Don't open email attachments from unexpected email.
Lastly, bookmark and use OnGuardOnline.gov and StaySafeOnline.org to learn more about how to keep you and your computer safe and secure.
AARP Resources
Find information on how to Be a Wise Consumer on AARP.org
Stay informed with the Consumer Alert from the AARP Bulletin Online
Learn how to Scam-Proof Your Life
AARP does not recommend or endorse any of these products or web sites. Please be advised that there are other similar products and web sites available which were not reviewed and are not listed here.
About the Author
Susan Ayers Walker is a leading-edge boomer with over 35 years experience in emerging technologies.
