Phishing

Phishing (from fishing) is a form of internet deception, usually using email or copies of popular websites. Phishers use emails or websites which appear to be a trustworthy entity. Here they try to fraudulently acquire sensitive information, such as user names, passwords and credit card details from their unsuspecting victims.

One commonly suggested method of avoiding phishing scams is to check the URL to ensure that one is on the proper website before entering any personal information or credit card numbers online. The best option is to contact the company whom the email claims to be associated with. Phishing scams often claim to be a user's bank, or a service they may use (such as eBay), needing personal details confirmed as a security measure. In fact these practises are not something that legitimate companies engage in.