Beware of Online Banking Scams

This is an important message for people who access their banks through online systems.

For a number of months, I have been receiving e-mail messages from various banks in order to validate my online access codes. The funniest part is that, I have no accounts with these banks.

I have always ignored them. I knew that they were scams but did not realize how dangerous it could have been if the criminals had used my own bank name to send me me the following e-mail.

Not doubting my bank, I would have most probably tried to correct my log in details as I am an extensive user of online banking. I hardly get time to go to a local branch. Luckily, the occasion did not arise for me.

Have you received e-mails messages asking you to valid your account details? If so, don't ever do it. If ever in doubt, then you should contact immediately you local branch or the branch where your account is held to correct the information with them.

I am writing this blog today because I read an article published in the Sunday Business Post today. And it has struck me in the head.

Fraudsters have launched phishing attacks on banks here in Ireland. A certain number of the banks have been affected by this phishing. I am sure that it is not only in Ireland but all over the world. So I do hope this message reaches the maximum number of people.

Phishing occurs when criminals use fraudulent e-mails to trick consumers into logging onto a fake online banking website and revealing their bank login details.

The articles states that the banks have detected 100 fake websites so far this year compared to 75 websites in 2008. These fraudulent sites are increasing rapidly.

So far the banks have intercepted these e-mails and never get as far as the consumers. Some of the consumers have been affected and the unlucky consumers could be scammed for as much as €30,000.

So my personal advice to you, if ever in doubt contact directly your bank and delete the e-mails you receive, never even open them.


My website (under development)
www.master-your-computer.com

I created my website with the Site Build It. An excellent web hosting company. It has an excellent learning package and teaches you step by step how to create a website. With them you do not need any Html or computer knowledge. They have excellent back office tools for creating contents and monetizing techniques. Please click on the link below to learn more. It is a video which will take you through the different stages and will also show testimonials of other successful entrepreneurs.