·        Don't use the links in an email to get to any web page, if you suspect the message might not be authentic Call the company on the telephone, or log onto the website directly by typing in the Web address in your browser.
·        Avoid filling out forms in email messages that ask for personal financial information; You should only communicate information such as credit card numbers or account information via a secure website or telephone.
·        Always ensure that you're using a secure website when submitting credit card or other sensitive information via your Web browser.  To ensure that  you're on a secure Web server, check the beginning of the Web address in your browsers address bar - it should be "https://" rather than just  "http://"
·        Regularly check your online accounts as well as bank, credit and debit card statements to ensure that all transactions are legitimate.
·        Ensure that your browser is up to date and that all security patches are applied.  Microsoft Internet Explorer -- http://www.microsoft.com/security
·        Always report "phishing" or “spoofed” e-mails to the following groups:

• Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov
• Internet Fraud Complaint Center of the FBI at www.ifccfbi.gov/