Phising : Example and its prevention methods

WHAT IS PHISING??

Phishing is an attempt by perpetrator by using computer to acquire sensitive information criminally and fraudulently such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, bank account number, account data or other information to invade people privacy.

HOW PHISING WORKS??

Phishing is usually carried out by sending e-mail, instant message, and phone call which the content of the messages will often ask you to reveal your personal information. They will use fake website they have created instead of legitimate one to steal the information from people, the fraudulent email address that they have sent usually redirect to the perpetrator website which is fake so that it looks similar to the original website. Many people may not know this website is real or not, if they are lack of awareness, most probably they will fall into this trap.

The chart below shows that the phishing crime is increasing each month from October 2004 to June 2005.

The most common target for the phishing is Paypal, eBay and online banks are used to let the perpetrator commit fraud. Here is the example of phishing:

a) This is example of phishing targeted at paypal users.

b) Phishing e-mail , disguised as an official e-mail from bank.

c) An example of a phishing e-mail targeted at eBay users.

d) Phishing e-mail from Citibank.

PPPREVENTION METHODS OF PHISHING:
There are a few ways to prevent being a victim of phishing scams. Here are the methods to avoid the phishing scams.
1. If you get an email or pop-up message that asks for personal or financial information, do not reply.
2. Read the message carefully before enter your password or any personal identity to the sender.
3. Examine the link that provided in the email because real email will have a link to original or official websites.
4. Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, as well as a firewall, and update them all regularly to detect phishing easily.
5. Make sure any received call is really from real banks or right people.
6. Always keep your password and username safe from other people.