In the past, it was reasonably easy to distinguish between fake emails from the IRS and the Banks (if you have more than one account). However each year the scammers are getting better and you have to train yourself not to respond.

We live in an era where we expect and give fast response to customers and that is where the scammers have a gateway. Phishing emails have two purposes: one that clicks on a link to install malevolent software that locks your computer. You have to pay a fee (larger than you expect) to have it unlocked. The second purpose is to provide the log on and passwords to get into your accounts.

Rob Carrick writing in the Globe and Mail received some emails, the blogger received one to, the way to fight back is to know what the policies of the IRS and the bank are. If you receive an email to send an Interact payment, know the agency at tax time asks for check or direct deposit. The rules are similar the rest of the year.

If the bank sends you an email saying your banking activity, know the bank did not send it. Go to your bank. If there really is a problem, you have to go anyways.

Linking to dividend paying stocks, the fraudster preys on your honesty, most people are or try to be honest, however these types of fraud are lucrative and very hard to get your money back. Learn the policies and procedures of the banks and you will be better off. The same matter with investing, learn the rules and you will be better off.

There are more questions than answers, till the next time – to raising questions.