phishing scam hook @ graphic

Think before you click. Don’t open unexpected email attachments from unknown persons. Just because an email message looks like it came from someone doesn’t mean that it actually did. Scammers can “spoof” the return address, making it look like the message came from someone else.  Don’t view or click on links in unsolicited emails.

Trust your instincts – If an email, link or email attachment seems suspicious, don’t open it, even if your anti-virus software indicates that the message is clean. Attackers are constantly releasing new viruses, and the anti-virus software might not have the signature. At the very least, contact the person who supposedly sent the message to make sure it’s legitimate before you open the attachment. However, especially in the case of forwards, even messages sent by a legitimate sender might contain a virus. If something about the email or the attachment makes you uncomfortable, there may be a good reason. Don’t let your curiosity put your computer at risk.