this email as it looks like something official and threatens to affect your livelihood if you don't respond.

The reverse is true. The scammers sending this type of email want you to click their link, input your personal details and thereby steal your private data and thereafter, your identity. Soon after, your bank account will be emptied, your name used in some credit fraud or, even worse, for terrorist activities.

These types of mails are known as "spoof" or "hoax" emails, and although they might sound comical and innocent, this is far from the truth. Other terms are "phishing scams" or "forged emails".

There has been a large increase in these types of scams in recent years. Millions of people - in America, the UK and elsewhere - have been affected, leading to a huge number of victims, running into the millions. The cost of these activities amounts to an overall loss of several billion dollars in America alone.

The basis of these scams is that the victims, or potential victims, will be feel vulnerable enough to click on a false link and input their personal details. And, this is quite understandable, given that none of us want to lose our financial freedom, which these mails suggest we might if no action is taken.

Look out for these phishing emails seemingly from your bank or other financial institution, including PayPal and even the auction site, eBay. If you can, report the email as spam to your internet provide and delete them right away.
For further information and resources on identity theft, internet crime and online security visit the New Identity Theft website operated by Eric Hartwell.

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