How to Avoid Fraudulent Web Sites by Using the Phishing Filter

Microsoft's Internet Explorer 8 contains a built-in phishing filter that protects you from scam websites attempting to collect personal information for nefarious reasons. The phishing filter automatically works once turned on. It warns you if you are about to load a fraudulent or unsafe website. It only takes a minute to turn on the phishing filter and avoid many common phishing attempts.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Click "Start" then "All Programs." Click "internet Explorer."

2. Choose "Safety" from the menu selections.

3. Choose "Smartscreen Filter."

4. Click "Turn On Smartscreen Filter."

5. Click on "Turn on SmartScreen Filter (recommended)" to confirm, then click "OK." Once the phishing filter is turned on, it will automatically check sites you are visiting to see if they are associated with phishing attempts. If the filter flags a legitimate site, you can send information to Microsoft confirming it as a safe site and then click through to visit it.

References

• Microsoft: SmartScreen Filter, Frequently Asked Questions
• Microsoft: How to Turn the Internet Explorer Phishing Filter or the SmartScreen Filter On or Off