Identity theft

With so much shopping going on and lots of currency being exchanged, criminals are looking for new, creative ways to target consumers, Wachovia Bank warns.

There are three distinct cons going on this year: “phishing,” charity schemes and Internet scams. Phishing involves a counterfeit e-mail or Web site that appears to be authentic and asks the consumer to enter or verify personal financial information.

People want to be generous during Christmas, but consumers should beware of charity schemes that seek donations for a phony cause through mail or by telephone.

Lastly, Internet schemes target people who sell expensive items like cars or boats online. The scam involves a “buyer” who sends the seller more money than the agreed upon price. The buyer then contacts the seller and asks them to wire the difference. This often results in the seller losing not just the wired money but the sale item as well.

There are several things one can do to avoid falling victim, Raichel said. Most importantly, never give checking account, credit card or Social Security numbers to unknown callers.

Never write PIN numbers on ATM, checks or credit cards and don’t share the numbers. Do not reply to e-mail or pop-up messages that ask for personal information.

Use proper firewall and anti-virus software and look for the “lock” sign on the bottom of the screen as assurance of a secure Web site.

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