E-mail fraud can be a major problem for unsuspecting Internet users. Claiming to be sent by one of your financial services providers, these e-mails ask members to reply with personal information, such as their credit card number, social security number, or online User ID and password.

These deceptive e-mails are called "spoof e-mails or phishing" because they fake the appearance of a popular website or company in an attempt to commit identity theft. Here are a few tips to safeguard your personal information:

• Be suspicious of e-mails that threaten you
• Delete e-mail messages asking you to verify personal information
• Delete suspicious e-mail messages without opening them
• On suspicious e-mails, never open attachments or click any links
• Install a firewall, virus, and spyware protection software - and keep them updated
• Check your credit reports annually for suspicious transactions and errors

If you feel you are the victim of a phishing scam, please contact us immediately at 800.230.3306.