Internet users beware!  A scam targeting bank customers has recently popped up, encouraging users to divulge personal information.  In fact, these Internet crooks are actually using pop-up screens in addition to e-mail messages to gather information.  Their trick is to misrepresent themselves as banks such as Citibank, Key Bank and US Bank, and ask for verification of personal information – asserting they need the information to protect you against identity theft.  They threaten to suspend or close your account if you do not comply. Please do not fall for this scam!  

The bottom line:  if you receive an email or a pop-up screen requesting such personal information, contact your financial institution to see whether the message is valid and to report the scam.  If personal information needs to be verified, it should be done in person and not over the phone or Internet. 

To file a complaint about Internet fraud, visit the federal InternetFraudComplaintCenter’s Web site at www.ic3.gov.