Phishing

Phishing is a way in which cybercriminals attempt to acquire confidential information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details, usually via email.

The perpetrators typically send out emails which claim to be from legitimate institutions including banks, web sites, or online payment firms, often claiming to alert them to a problem with their account.

Victims may be enticed to enter a faked version of the offical website concerned, where login details are captured and then used by the criminal to access the real account.

Users may also be asked to send bank details by email to confirm they are the legitmate account holder, or because of they have been promised a payment into that account.

Voice phishing (Vishing) is also used to obtain confidential details. A fake caller usually contacts victims and pretends to be calling from their bank or another trusted organisation.