|
|
(HealthNewsDigest.com)-Many people know that phishing, or luring Internet users to illegitimate Web sites in an attempt to obtain personal information, is becoming more widespread and more sophisticated. Learning how to identify these scams and phishing Web sites may keep you from becoming a victim.
Statistics from a recent survey commissioned by VeriSign reveal that 88 percent of U.S. Web surfers are unable to identify various forms of phishing Web sites from authentic sites they emulate in a side-by-side comparison. The survey, which was also conducted in Germany, Sweden, Australia, India, Denmark and the United Kingdom, shows that U.S. Internet users were least likely to identify the telltale signs of a phishing site.
Internet users who cannot identify phishing sites may be more likely to give up personal and financial information online, making them extremely vulnerable to identity theft and fraud.
“Whether you are shopping online or using a social networking site, it is important to protect yourself on the Internet,” said Tim Callan of VeriSign. “There are simple measures that will secure your financial and personal data from phishing scams and online fraud.”
Consumer education is crucial in combating this nationwide issue. Luckily, there are easy-to-spot indicators that can help consumers identify phishing sites and stay safe online. Internet users should watch for the following when banking, shopping and interacting online:
https:// in the URL: The “s” in https:// means the site is encrypted, so the information you enter is secured. While some phishing sites do have a secured Web address, many do not. Therefore, site visitors should be on the lookout for missing security on sites that should have it.
Trust marks: Simple visual cues in the form of popular logos can show that a Web site is authenticated and secured, and that a company is reputable.
The Web address: Be suspicious of any site with an unknown domain that contains the name of a well-known site in the latter part of the Web address.
Green address bar: This signifies that a site has undergone extensive identity authentication so that you can be confident it is the site it claims to be.
Internet users can apply the above tips and test their knowledge by taking the “Phish or No Phish Challenge” at www.phish-no-phish.com.
For more information about how to stay secure online, visit www.trustthecheck.com.
Subscribe to our FREE Ezine and be eligible for Health News, discounted products/services and coupons related to your Health. We publish 24/7.
HealthNewsDigest.com
We also create, produce and distribute tv/cable public service campaigns: HealthyTelevisionProductions