What is Phishing ?

Phishing(pronounce fishing) is a form of deception designed to coerce a person or group of people to disclose private information: passwords, credit card information and account numbers, etc. A phishing attempt will typically use a web site that has a duplicated look and feel of a trusted brand and/or service, but is in no way a part of the actual site. *Source: NYCE Information Security
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What typically happens is you may receive an email or pop-up from an individual or a company that looks legitimate. The email may have a link to a web page and be asking you to update your personal information. It may look like your bank or credit card company's web page. It will look geniune.
It may ask for your credit card information and/or account information with an explanation that the company is looking to update your information.

DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS TYPE OF CONTACT.

IMMEDIATELY CALL THE FINANCIAL INSTITUTION OR CREDIT CARD COMPANY WITH A PHONE NUMBER THAT YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH. Example, your local branch or a phone number on your credit card. They will advise you on how to proceed.

REMEMBER: The legitimate companies you are dealing with already have your personal information.

Disaster Relief

Disasters bring out the best in people who want to help. Unfortunately, they also bring out the worst-those who prey on victims and seek to profit from the disaster.

If you are planning on making a contribution to relief efforts, make sure you know where your donation dollars will go.


Avoid cash gifts. It's best to pay by credit card or check.
Check out the charity, company or organization before giving.
Be cautious of solicitations to companies with names similiar to those of well-known charities. Legitimate charities web address typically end with .org not .com.

A message from the United States Postal Inspection Service.