Fraudulent Email (Phishing)

General Information

1. What is email “phishing”?

   “Phishing” is designed to steal information by creating a false sense of urgency. Criminals attempt to con individuals into providing personal information such as credit card numbers, passwords, account data, or other valuable information through fraudulent emails masking as emails from legitimate businesses.

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2. How do email phishing scams work?

   The emails usually display well-known brand names such as your bank, your insurance carrier, or even Verizon Wireless. These deceptive emails are called "spoof emails" because they fake the appearance of a popular website or company. Typically, the email requests that the recipient update or confirm their personal information. Links may be provided to a website that may also display the company logo or other recognized elements of the company.

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3. How do I know if I received a phishing email?

   There are several indicators of a phishing email.
   
   

   • Generic greetings. Instead of using your name, many phishing emails begin with a general greeting, such as: "Dear [Company Name] customer."
     
     
   • Incorrect account information. The email will attempt to scare you with a large account balance or a warning that someone has recently updated your account.
     
     
   • A false sense of urgency. The email will attempt to deceive you with the threat that your account is in jeopardy if you don't update your information as soon as possible.
     
     
   • Fake links. The text in a link may look valid, and then send you to a "spoof" address. Always check where a link is going before you click. You can do this by hovering your mouse over it and looking at the URL on your browser or status bar. If it appears suspicious, don't click on the link.
   
   
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4. What happens if I receive an email that seems fraudulent?

   If an email seems suspicious:
   

   1. Don’t respond to the email. Don’t click on any embedded links.
      
      
   2. In My Verizon, under Profile, go to My Documents and Receipts to view legitimate billing or account notifications.
      
      
   3. You may drag and drop the email or insert the message into a new email and send it to phishing@verizonwireless.com for our internal review.
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5. What should I do if I responded to a suspicious email?

   If you clicked on any links and you suspect you downloaded any programs, your computer may be at risk of infection. You should immediately run your anti-virus / anti-malware software and change your sign in information.

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