Phishing: A Definition

   Phishing is a form of Internet fraud in which people are tricked into giving personal and financial information. Commonly, it involves sending e-mail messages that claim to be from established enterprises. The e-mails generally ask recipients to reply quickly with confidential information for a legitimate-sounding reason (for example, the company is updating its records). Just like a fishing expedition, phishers throw out a lure and see who will take the bait.

   If recipients surrender confidential information, identity thieves can use it for fraudulent purposes such as stealing from financial accounts, running up credit card charges, and applying for loans.