The following ALERT is from the National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance.

Internet "Phishing" scams are on the rise.  In this particular type of scam, the criminal attempts to trick you into releasing confidential information such as your credit card numbers, social security account number, passwords, or other personal information.

In the old days, these scams were pretty much limited to e-mail messages which would try to convince you to send your personal information back to some seemingly legitimate e-mail address.  Now, we are seeing the criminals use spam to lure you to a web site which they control.  Using URL obfuscation techniques, they are able to make this site appear to be a legitimate business site (such as a well known bank or ISP).

The Federal Trade Commission has released three 60-second videos to help alert consumers to phishing scams

Stop • Think • Click: An Overview of Computer Security

The internet gives you access to information, entertainment, financial offers—frankly, countless products and services. At the same time, it can leave you open to online scammers, identity thieves, and more. Learn experts' top tips for computer security.

Email Scams

Most people agree that getting "spam" is annoying. Spam—unsolicited sales pitches—also can be costly, with offers for bogus products and fraudulent promotions. Learn to spot 10 common spam scams and what to do if one shows up in your inbox.

Phishing

When fraudsters send spam or pop-up messages, they're casting a wide net in hopes of getting people to divulge their personal and financial information. Learn how to spot a phishing message, how to avoid getting "hooked," and what to do if—oops—you realize you've been phished.

If you need advice about an Internet or telemarketing solicitation, or you want to report a possible scam, use the Online Reporting Form located on the National Consumer League’s Internet Fraud Watch