Take steps to avoid new H1N1 email scam

Dec. 2, 2009 - Attorney General Richard Cordray today warned Ohioans of a new e-mail that masks itself as an official communication from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in an attempt to distribute a computer virus that helps thieves steal personal information.

State officials say the fake email announces the kickoff of a "state vaccination H1N1 program" and encourages recipients to click on a website link, download instructions, and create a personal vaccination profile. The download contains a virus that is spread to the unsuspecting user's computer.

"Any time you receive an e-mail from someone you are not familiar with, I strongly recommend avoiding the provided links," said Cordray. "Clicking on that link can unleash downloadable viruses capable of capturing your personal information and sending it back to the scam artist."

Cordray suggests that Ohioans take the following steps to avoid online phishing scams:

• Contact the institution yourself: Don't respond to unsolicited requests for your personal information. Instead, contact the organization at a phone number or a Web address you know to be correct.

• Don't click on links in e-mails: Be cautious about opening any attachments or downloading any files from e-mail messages. Links and attachments can make your computer vulnerable to viruses.

• Look for warning signs: Misspelled words or a lack of personal greetings may signal fraud. However, the presence of a personal greeting or a lack of errors does not guarantee legitimacy.  Always be skeptical.  

• Use spam filters, anti-virus software, anti-spyware software and a firewall:  Update your security software regularly. The software can help stop your computer from accepting unwanted files that can be sent via phishing e-mails.

• Don't give out personal information via e-mail: E-mail is not a secure method of transmitting personal information. A bank or governmental agency will never request personal information via e-mail.

• Monitor your accounts: Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them. If you find unauthorized charges, immediately notify your bank or credit card provider.

• Report phishing scams to the company or organization the scam artist is impersonating and to the Ohio Attorney General's Office.

See Related

News Release: Cordray warns Ohioans of new H1N1 scam

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services informational Web site:  www.flu.gov

Ohio Department of Health informational site: www.flu.ohio.gov

H1N1 Toolbox for OCSEA members