Phishing Email
When someone poses as a company that you do business with and asks for your account information, that is phishing. Most companies don't ask you for your account information via email. They would already have it. If it seems suspicious, contact the company and ask if they really sent the email.
WesTel Systems would never send an email like that to you. We already have your user name and password. We would NEVER ask you for that information in an unsolicited email.
Multi-Recipient Spoofed Messages
When you receive an unsolicited message that looks to be from a well-known business and it shows multiple recipients, it's a pretty safe bet to assume that it is fraudulent.
Be safe and delete these messages and never click on the links they contain.
Phony Bills
It's pretty unlikely that a company would send a bill to many people at once for the same amount. Such a message shouts fake.
As always avoid clicking any links on suspicious messages. Delete them.
Software Upgrade
Beware of unsolicited upgrade emails for common programs. Many software upgrades happen automatically and not by email. If you do get an email saying you need an upgrade, don't click on the links in the email. Instead, go to the company's website and download the upgrade yourself. The upgrades would be available on websites for Windows and Adobe, for example.
Infection Alert
As a reminder, it's important to carefully research antivirus software before downloading to make sure it's legitimate and not actually a malicious program. For example, Google warns NOT to install "My Security Shield," "Security Master AV," and "CleanUp Antivirus." You can also check with your Internet Service Provider for recommendations on antivirus software.
Tax-Related Emails
Since it is tax season, be warned about tax-related emails. These criminals use a variety of ploys to try to convince nervous taxpayers to reveal personal information. It might look like it is from a tax preparing company such as Turbo Tax or H & R Block. The phony emails tells recipients they need to do something to be in compliance with tax laws. It may provide a link which leads to a fake (but legitimate-looking) website.
Keep in mind that the IRS does not send unsolicited email about tax account matters to taxpayers. If you should receive an email claiming to be from the IRS, do not reply, click on any links, or provide any information.
