If you have internet access, you may be under attack---a phishing attack, that is.  This high-tech scam involves three components:

Spoofing is creating a replica of an existing Website

Spamming is unsolicited, or "junk" e-mail

Phishing is the act of using spoofing and spamming to lure unsuspecting victims, hoping to deceive you into disclosing your Social Security number, credit card and checking account numbers, passwords, or other sensitive information

Vishing is is the criminal practice of using social engineering over the telephone system, most often using features facilitated by Voice over IP (VoIP), to gain access to private personal and financial information from the public for the purpose of financial reward.

The Federal Trade Commission recommends the following to help you avoid getting hooked:

• If you get a pop-up or email message requesting personal or financial information, don't reply or click on the link message.  Legitimate companies won't ask for this information.
• Be cautious about opening attachments or downloading files from email messages.
• Never send personal information via email.  Look for the closed padlock at the bottom of your browser window, or a URL that begins with "https"--the "s" stands for secure.  However, some phishers forge these security icons.
• Review statements for accuracy as you receive them.  If they're late, call the company to confirm billing address and balance.
• Use antivirus software and keep it up-to-date.  Run a firewall, particularly if you have a broadband connection.  Take advantage of free software "patches".

Report suspicious activity to the FTC at www.ftc.gov, and forward suspicious messages to spam@uce.gov.

You'll Never Catch us Phishing

If you get a message asking you to verify personal information, it didn't come from your credit union!  Prime Care will never send you a letter or email asking for your account numbers, usernames, passwords, or social security number.  If you get a message like that, please do not give it out and contact us immediately.