November 22, 2011
- Oak Island, NC - Be leery of e-mails or text
messages you receive indicating a problem or
question regarding your financial accounts. In this
scam, you are directed to follow a link or call the
number provided in the message to update your
account or correct the problem. The link actually
directs the individual to a fraudulent Web site or
message that appears legitimate; however, any
personal information you provide, such as account
number and personal identification number (PIN),
will be stolen. Another scam involves victims
receiving an e-mail message directing the recipient
to a spoofed Web site. A spoofed Web site is a fake
site or copy of a real Web site that is designed to
mislead the recipient into providing personal
information.
Consumers are encouraged to beware of bargain
e-mails advertising one day only promotions for
recognized brands or Web sites. Fraudsters often use
the hot items of the season to lure bargain hunters
into providing credit card information. The old
adage "if it seems too good to be true" is a good
barometer to use to legitimize e-mails.
Black Friday has traditionally been the "biggest
shopping day of the year." The Monday following
Thanksgiving has more recently (2005) been labeled
Cyber Monday, meaning the e-commerce industry
endorses this special day to offer sales and
promotions without interfering with the traditional
way to shop. Scammers try to prey on Black Friday or
Cyber Monday bargain hunters by advertising "one day
only" promotions from recognized brands. Consumers
should be on the watch for too good to be true
e-mails from unrecognized Web sites.
Along with on-line shopping comes the growth of
consumers utilizing social networking sites and
mobile phones to satisfy their shopping needs more
easily. Again, consumers are encouraged to beware of
e-mails, text messages, or postings that may lead to
fraudulent sites offering bargains on brand name
products.
This Crime Prevention Alert is provided by the Oak
Island Community Watch and the FBI.
Any questions or concerns please call Oak Island
Police Department at 910-278-5595.