Identity theft continues to have a negative impact on millions of New Yorkers. One of the most prevalent forms of identity theft is commonly referred to as “phishing.” Phishing scammers send e-mail or pop-up messages designed to trick consumers into divulging personal information such as account passwords, credit card numbers, Social Security Numbers, or other sensitive information. Once in possession of this information, fraudulent actors can use it to commit identity theft crimes or sell the information.

Phishing scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Criminals are using bogus Web sites, fake e-mail addresses and other deceptive means to pry sensitive personal information from unsuspecting consumers.

Identity theft victims often spend months or even years clearing their accounts of fraudulent charges and restoring their credit history. It is important that consumers take steps to protect themselves from becoming victimized. You can protect yourself from phishing scams by reporting suspicious e-mail messages to the proper authorities and learning about the ways in which criminals lure victims.

Feel free to contact my office if you would like more information on this or any other matter.

3520 Nostrand Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11229
718-648-4700

The term “phishing” (FISH-ing) refers to online scams in which thieves attempt to lure consumers into divulging their passwords and financial and personal information through the use of fraudulent electronic communication in the form of e-mails or pop-up messages. These e-mails often claim to be from a business or organization that the consumer may already be familiar with, such as an Internet service provider, bank, credit card company, online payment service, or government agency. These e-mails often ask recipients to “confirm” or “validate” account information by responding and providing sensitive personal information, and sometimes these messages threaten that severe consequences will occur if the recipient does not respond.