Ways to Spot Email Fraud

Many Internet scams today involve email messages that appear to come from a trusted source, but are not trustworthy. Additionally, email attachments can be harmful because they may contain viruses.

 

The below can be indications that an email is fake:

  • The email claims to be from a legitimate company requesting that you change your password by clicking on a link. It may even threaten to suspend your account if you do not do this.
  • The email claims to be from a person in authority requesting a copy of a password file, User ID, Social Security number, or banking information.
  • The email asks you to verify your account information by clicking on a link and filling in a form.
  • Right click on the link in the email and select properties. If the section under URL Address contains an “@” symbol or does not appear to be a tdameritrade.com address then it is likely fraudulent.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from email fraud:

  • Do not reply to any email asking for personal information.
  • Use antivirus software and keep it updated. Scan all attachments with an antivirus software program before downloading
  • Do not visit links sent by email as these can lead to phishing sites— sites made to look legitimate and designed to collect your personal information. One way to avoid this is to enter the URL into your browser instead of clicking the link.
  • Do not open or reply to spam email which can prompt more spam to be sent to your inbox.
  • Turn off the “preview pane,” as this allows some viruses to be executed even if you never actually open the email.
  • Report suspicious email to your advisor and Trek Financial.

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