Visa, Consumer Advocacy Group Partner on Phishing Education

Consumer advocacy group the Consumer Federation of America, in conjunction with Visa, released a new consumer education paper this week designed to help protect individuals against phishing scams.

The paper, titled "Slam the Door on Phishing Scams" describe the common tactics that phishing scammers use, how people can protect themselves, and what to do if they become victims.

In 2012, phishing was the fourth most common scam reported to the National Consumers' League's Fraud Center and, as part of the category "Imposter Scams," it ranked at number 8 in the top ten frauds reported to the Federal Trade Commission last year.

"There are many variations of phishing scams and new ones pop up every day," said Susan Grant, director of consumer protection at the Consumer Federation of America, in a written statement. "If someone suddenly appeared at your door asking for your personal information, you'd be suspicious – and rightfully so. We want people to realize that it should be no different when someone approaches you online or by phone asking for that information."

The Consumer Federation of America is an association of nearly 300 non-profit consumer organizations that was established in 1968 to advance the consumer interest through research, education and advocacy.

Bryan Yurcan is associate editor for Bank Systems and Technology. He has worked in various editorial capacities for newspapers and magazines for the past 8 years. After beginning his career as a municipal and courts reporter for daily newspapers in upstate New York, Bryan has ... View Full Bio