Currently there are wide-spread e-mail attacks underway using a technique called phishing which lures computer users into revealing personal information. In these types of attacks, criminals pose as reputable companies that trick you into submitting your financial or personal data to a website. These thieves collect and use this data for identity theft and fraud at your expense.
The University Information Security Office has observed an increase in one specific phishing attack purporting to represent Chase Bank. The email message announces that it has new security measures and requests that you log in. This email is not legitimate and does not take you to Chase Bank. You should always be very careful with business-oriented email and never click on email links to the website.
Ways that you can protect yourself against phishing e-mail attacks:
What to do if you find out that you have been "phished" or believe you may be a victim of identity theft:
The University Information Security Office supports the organization Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, which publishes a guide for identity theft victims at http://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs17a.htm.
Sincerely,
H. David Lambert
Vice President for Information Services
and Chief Information Officer