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As you may already know, earlier this week tens of thousands of e-mail user were under threat after it was reported that fraudsters were phishing for personal details. The figures currently stand at approximately 30,000 e-mail accounts. 

I was going to report on this scam, but I have thought better of it, and maybe I could give some tips.

Firstly, if you are one of the victims, change your passwords. The fraudsters have obtained your e-mail password, and I bet you use that for other websites too. And that makes you vulnerable to things like financial fraud and identity theft. So go and change every single password. Particularly on sites which leave you vulnerable.

Secondly, you should check things like your virus software, Firewall (is it switched on?) and Malware protection. I can’t tell you what I have on my computer, as it came with it, but if I get a link in an e-mail and it is a phishing website, I am told of this when I have been redirected to the link. Maybe someone can comment on what this may be. I have Windows Vista. I would highly recommend looking for a phishing filter.

I am not sure how people have fallen for this scam. I am thinking they don’t have phishing filters. I was going to say that no professional institution will ever ask you for your password, but they do. Every time you log out, you have to re-enter your password. Some institutions set up a password for if you ever call them. Passwords are meant to protect you.

Google are forcing password resets, so if you are a Google Mail customer, then you should be fine. If you don’t recognise the sender, be wary, and be suspicious of misspelt URL’s.

The only other advice I can really offer is : BE AWARE! If you think it is dodgy, give them a call. I have found them to be useful in the past when I have had suspicions. And I have always been right. They won’t treat you like an imbecile. They will be happy that you are checking somethings authenticity. And get a phishing filter.