To help protect yourself from online phishing:
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Turn on Microsoft Phishing Filter to scan the websites you visit for characteristics typical of phishing websites. For more information, see ninemsn Explorer: Turn Microsoft Phishing Filter on or off.
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Don't give out personal information in an e-mail message, instant message, or pop-up window.
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Don't click links that appear suspicious, especially in e-mail or instant messages from strangers. And, because even e-mail and instant messages from friends and family can be faked, check with the sender to make sure that they actually sent the message before you open it.
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Only visit websites that provide privacy statements or information about how they help protect your personal information.
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Routinely review your financial statements and credit history, and report any suspicious activity.
If you think that you may have entered your personal or financial information into a phishing website, immediately do the following:
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Change the passwords or PINs for all your online accounts.
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Place a fraud alert on your credit reports. Check with your bank or financial advisor if you aren't sure how to do this. Not all banks permit fraud alerts.
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Contact the owner of the real website directly. Do not follow any links in the fraudulent e-mail.
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Close any accounts that were accessed or opened fraudulently if you know what they are.
 Important |
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| If you discover that you are a victim of online fraud, immediately contact the local police. |