Email Scam
|
 |
|
Betsy Summerville,
Senior Vice President,
Retail Banking |
Dear Salisbury Banker:
I recently received an email from a well-known national delivery company stating they are unable to deliver a package to me, and that I should click on a link for more information. I have not ordered anything, and am not expecting a delivery, so I am suspicious. Could this be some type of scam?
DOUBTFUL OF DELIVERY
DEAR DOUBTFUL:
That email is delivering nothing but trouble! According to recent reports, the scam you describe is one of the fastest growing ones on the Internet. Crooks buy the email addresses of their intended victims or collect them when they get responses from other spamming attempts. Clicking the link downloads any of a number of malicious computer infections (malware). Some viruses unleash "keystroke loggers" that let the hacker capture your passwords and online banking and credit card information. Since last summer, this has become one of the most common ways cybercrooks distribute malware.
Delivery services make ideal targets because people do receive parcels but, in reality, it's unlikely that a bona fide courier would even have your email address. And the scam isn't limited to delivery companies; similar emails have been sent under such guises as confirming or sending invoices for airline tickets, or linking to websites promising information about parking violations.
To detect and remove viruses, scan your computer at least weekly with updated anti-virus software that you purchase. Consider buying a "security suite" that may be better at remedying malicious spyware.
The bottom line: Be suspicious of any email that asks you to click on a link or attachment. If you receive such an email, do not click on the email or any links within it, or open any attachment. To learn more about online security, visit our website www.salisburybank.com and click on Customer Security.
Betsy Summerville, Senior Vice President, Retail Banking
Do you have questions about fraudulent emails or scams?
Please contact me at Banker@salisburybank.com.
This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice. We suggest that you consult with a computer expert or technical advisor for guidance with regard to your particular situation. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy and interpretation are not guaranteed.