Two New Internet Dangers You Need to Know About

As Internet technology evolves, so does the number of ways that those with less than honorable intentions can communicate with you. Cases in point: Spim and Vishing. And, their names aren't the only things that should cause you to raise an eyebrow.

Spim

We've all heard of spam, but what's spim? Spim is basically spam that targets instant message (IM) users. Spim messages are unsolicited and they can range from harmless email marketing messages to those with a more malicious intent.

So, what makes spim so dangerous? Spim is sent through a real-time communications platform which means that you have to deal with it in real time. When you are logged into your IM platform, you are expecting to hear from people you know. However, if you haven't configured your IM system to receive messages from only people on your buddy or contact list, spim may just pop up tempting you to open it right away. The spim then may contain links to unscrupulous websites or may contain virus-filled attachments.

• Unfortunately, most anti-spam filters are unable to detect spim. So, what do you do?
• Only accept messages from people on your buddy lists. Most IM systems are defaulted to allow all IM clients to chat with everyone using that particular IM system.
• Do not make your IM user name or contact details public.
• Never open or respond to a message from someone you don't know. And, if you accidentally open the message, never click on a link or download an attachment.
• Use caution when opening attachments or clicking on links from those in your buddy/contact list. Your buddy's system may have been infected.
• Only share your screen name with people you trust.
• Monitor your children's use of IM and make sure they understand the dangers.
• Configure your anti-virus software to automatically scan all email and downloaded files.

Vishing

Many Internet surfers are familiar with the term "phishing." Phishing is when you receive an email asking you to provide personal information so the person originating the email can use it in a malicious way. Vishing is the act of using a new technology called Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to falsely claim to be a legitimate organization in order to trick you into disclosing personal information.

With vishing, you receive an email, phone recording or phone call from a live person asking you to call a specific business in order to resolve an issue or re-secure personal data. Oftentimes these emails or calls attempt to get you upset or nervous and demand an urgent response. Upon calling the telephone number, the caller is greeted with the business's name and then asked to enter personal numbers (credit card numbers, PINs, or Social Security Numbers, to name a few) using the touch-tone keypad on their telephone.

Then, vishers capture the key tones and convert them back into numerical format. From there, they can now get control of your financial information, open new accounts, transfer balances, apply for loans or use your credit cards.

How do you protect yourself? First, know that Connexus Credit Union will NEVER contact you, by email or phone, and ask you to provide or verify your account numbers or financial information. Second, be very suspicious when receiving calls or messages asking you to provide credit card or account numbers. Any reputable organization will not contact you asking for this information.