Welcome to April 2008 newsletter from Dimitris By Design. We want this newsletter to be educational, informative and a take action initiative for all clients, friends, and associates.

What is Phishing?

Phishing is an attempt to criminally and fraudulently acquire sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords and credit card details, by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication.

How is Phishing done:

Phishing is typically carried out by email or instant messaging, and often directs users to enter details at a website, although phone contact has also been used. Phishing is an example of social engineering techniques used to fool users.

What to do:

If you suspect that you've responded to a phishing scam with personal or financial information or entered this information into a fake Web site, take these steps to minimize any damage. (Information is from Microsoft)*

  • Report the incident to the following authorities.
  • Change the passwords on all your online accounts.
  • Routinely review your credit card and bank statements.
  • Use the latest products and services to help warn and protect you from online scams.

      • At this time DimitrisByDesign.com wants all our clients, friends and associates to be informed of the latest technology for web communication, please contact DimitrisByDesign to help you create and host your website and .mobi as part of our many website services.

        The Bottom Line:


        Tax season is here, including the stimulus payments coming as soon as May 2008. Everyone needs to be aware of phishing scams, especially claiming to be from the IRS. In order to avoid these scams you can click here for more infomation on how to report phishing scams to the IRS. The IRS will never ask you for the following information (information is from the IRS)*:

      • The IRS does not initiate taxpayer communications through e-mail. In addition, the IRS does not request detailed personal information through e-mail or ask taxpayers for the PIN numbers, passwords or similar secret access information for their credit card, bank or other financial accounts.
      • Do not open any attachments to questionable e-mails, which may contain malicious code that will infect your computer. Please be advised that the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers via e-mails.

        To wrap up

        If you think you are a vicitim of any phishing scams, Dimitris By Design can also help you, please call or email us.

        For more information on the monthly maintenance plans, please call us toll free 866.385.7965, local 510.903.9218 or email at quote@dimitrisbydesign.com.

        *Dimitris By Design presents this for informational purposes only and is not held responsible for any claims made. The reader should always conduct a thorough, careful research concerning any information presented here.  

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