Scam Study: The Update-Your-Information Email
This scam is built around you receiving an email supposedly from your bank asking you to update information on your credit card along with putting in your card number and personal information. Credit cards and Internet security people say not to answer to this type of email. It usually has a hyperlink taking you to a site that looks very much like the bank site, and you are asked to put in your email.
The hyperlink has nothing to do with your bank. Instead if you put in your information, your banking security has been broken. The fraudsters simply use your information that you have so willingly given them.
What You Should Consider When Using Your Credit Card Online
Never answer these emails. No financial institution will send an email asking for your information. If you have any question as to the validity of the email, access your bank in your normal way and inquire about the email. This helps keep your credit cards and Internet security intact.
When making online purchases, buy only from a secure site. Know who you are buying from. Some fraudsters have been known to set up a fake site, take people’s money and card numbers and then disappear. Also, don’t fall for high pressure sales tactics where you are pressured to give your credit card account number.
Do not send credit card numbers or any other sensitive information by email. Email is not secure. Don’t trust anyone who asks to be paid by this method.
Secure Sites
Secure sites keep credit card and other sensitive information secret by encrypting the information. Many sites use a Secure Socket Layer (SSL). Sites protected by this begin with https rather than http. There will also be a padlock icon at the bottom-right corner of your browser while viewing a secure page.
How Do Credit Card Providers Help?
Many card providers have added software to help with your credit cards and Internet security. One of these is Falcon fraud protection software that watches 24/7 for any unusual activity on your account.
Many card issuers now offer a guarantee of online security. If an online purchase is made without your consent, you will not be charged for it as long as you have adhered to all conditions, such as not allowing your card to be used by another person or having disclosed card details.
