Hays Police Warns About Phishing Scam

Hays Police (Kansas USA) are warning internet users after local banks heard rumor about the scam, which sends fake mails asking to confirm sensitive account details, as reported by TMCnet on December 23, 2008.

The Police claim that it seems no one is affected by the scam, but the trend of online banking indicates that anyone could be attacked. Hackers, who always search for the best way to deceive users into revealing their private details, have started a new scheme for attacking online users of bank.

The current scam does not ask users to enter their usernames and passwords. Rather, it directs them to click on the attached link which will lead them to a confirmation page.

A sample of the scam mail provided to the Police by Golden Belt Bank informs users that a server and site upgrade mandates clients to confirm their details and offers a link to do so.

Unlike other online schemes, the spelling and grammar in the inauthentic mails are correct and are written in a professional way that does not arouse suspicion. The Golden Belt mail states that they, similar to other financial institution, will never interact with users about their account only through mail.

Though banks can redeem any distortion caused by a member attacked, it can lead to tensions while the situation is solving.

Also, the Police emphasize to create awareness about ID theft and how to prohibit it. They also added that the major consequence of ID theft is phishing where users are asked to reveal their private details like PIN number or mother's maiden name for security check.

Therefore, the Police caution not to disclose private details unless users know whom they are interacting with. The Police also say that users should be extra vigilant if the mail comes from so-called bank or from police; the users should ask for number, call them and confirm.

The Yolo County District Attorney cautioned in the last week of December 2008 that in the current time of economic downturn, hackers have increased phishing attacks worldwide as many users are getting mails asking them for private information.

Related article: Hack.Huigezi Virus Attacks China PCs Rapidly

» SPAMfighter News - 12/30/2008