How to Recognize a Phishing Scam in Yahoo! Messenger

Phishers do not just target emails anymore. If you use the features of Yahoo! Instant Messenger, you must learn how to protect yourself from a phishing scam. These scams look like links sent by friends and family. When you click the link, you are taken to a page where you are asked to enter your email address and password to view the pictures. If you enter your information, it will be stolen.

Things You'll Need

  • Yahoo! Messenger
  • A computer with Internet access
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Instructions

    • 1

      If you receive a link from someone that you know in Yahoo! Messenger, ask for clarification of what they sent.

    • 2

      If you do not receive a reply despite the status of your friend showing online, then do not click the link.

    • 3

      If you do receive a reply, make sure through conversation that it is really your friend and not an automated reply or a scammer who is online.

    • 4

      If you cannot satisfy yourself that the link is legitimate, then do not click on it or give out any of your information. If you have a secondary contact for this person, warn him or her that their account may have been hijacked.

    • 5

      If you entered your information accidentally but can still access your account, change your password immediately.

Tips & Warnings

  • Change your password frequently to help prevent account compromise.

  • Check the URL (the Web address) of any links that you click, and be sure that you only provide password information while on a valid link.

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