Have you heard about phishing (pronounced fishing)? 

Phishing refers to fraudulent communications designed to deceive the recipient into divulging personal information such as social security numbers, credit card info, usernames and passwords, etc. Often, a well known brand name is hijacked to give the impression that the communication was sent by a bank, e-retailer, credit card, or service provider. These fraudulent emails often create a false sense of urgency and instruct the recipient to "verify your information" or "update your account" and threaten that "your service will be cancelled". Victims are unknowingly directed to seemingly credible websites where they are asked to provide valuable personal information that can be used for identify theft.

Another possibility is that the attack is designed to install malicious software onto the user's computer for identify theft or other purposes. By clicking on the link in the email, the recipient enables the imposter website to download software to their computer that can do any number of things, including render the computer completely useless.

Take an interactive test to see if you can tell the difference between a legitimate website and a phishing website.

Special Thanks to Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine for furnishing this interactive test.

The Sheriff's Department HI-TECH CRIMES UNIT

Provides this  Identity Theft Pamphlet

as a helpful resource

to guard yourself against becoming

a victim of Identity Theft.

Test Your "Identity Quotient"

800-525-6285

www.equifax.com

P.O. Box 740250, Atlanta 30374

• In dealing with the police and financial companies, keep a record of conversation dates, phone numbers and names of people you contacted.
• Follow up in writing with certified mail, return receipt requested.  Keep copies of all documents.  Information to track your correspondence is available at www.consumer.gov/idtheft
• Note your time and expenses in case you are able to seek restitution.

888-397-3742

www.experian.com

P.O. Box 9532, Allen, Texas 75013

800-680-7289

www.transunion.com

Fraud Victim Assistance Division

P.O. Box 6790, Fullerton 92834-6790