What is phishing with regards to identity theft?

Regardless of where you live, you may be the target of phishing but if you live in a very populated state like California, Florida or New York, identity theft can be so lucrative for thieves because of all the prospective "fish" you need to learn how to recognize a "phishing line" and avoid getting hooked.

Phishing is a term for an Internet based crime where thieves are out to steal your personal information and use it for their financial gain. Just like the dangling worm or pretty lure disguises the deadly hook, the most sophisticated phishing scams masquerade as legitimate, hoping to lure you in.

• Most phishing is done via email, website pop-ups or social media.
• Your best protection from phishing is your skepticism.

Trust your instincts. There is such a thing as too good to be true, so don't be gullible or greedy. Keep yourself and your identity safe by remembering these simple tips:

• Your bank or other financial institution will never send you an email asking you to click on a link and update your personal information. It doesn't matter if the email has their logo, correct mailing address and looks legitimate. It is not. Ignore it.
• The IRS will never send you a link asking for you to update personal information.
• UPS or Fedex will never send you a link asking for money or personal information before they deliver a package to you.
• There are no rich people in Africa trying to launder money through you who will pay you millions of dollars if you just finance a small transaction for them up front.

Don't "click here" unless you sought out the website and are entirely sure that it is legitimate, and you have initiated the transaction you are about to complete. Check your credit report at least once a year for activity that is not yours. If you have been the victim of identity theft, you may need to hire an attorney to help you sort out the mess. Some victims have even had identity theives declare bankruptcy using their personal information. Protect yourself as much as you can, but if you become a victim hire an attorney to help you untangle the phishing line.