Paper: Phishing: An Analysis of a Growing Problem

Email has become an invaluable communication tool for both business and personal use. Among the many security issues that now affect computer users, there is a growing threat known as “phishing“. You receive an e-mail from your credit card company informing you that your account has been deactivated because of suspicious activity. The message requests you to click a web link and log in to verify your account information. Following the instructions, you are directed to what appears to be the “Online Update” page of your credit card company. Here you are asked to enter your name, password, account number, social security number, and PIN. It all seems legitimate: the logos look proper, the web address of the page looks convincing, and the format of the site is the same as you remember. However, this is a scam; the e-mail is a fraud, and now a cyber-criminal has your personal information. He or she can now use or change your account or open new accounts in your name. You have become a victim of a growing crime called phishing