Visa Asia Pacific has uncovered and shut down 20 spoof websites to prevent cardholders from succumbing to online data theft.

Such websites are part of fraudulent online activities that are tied in with phishing emails, also known as "carding" or "brand spoofing".

In a statement on Feb 17, Visa said it was working with the relevant authorities and Internet service providers to shut down fake websites and render the phishing emails useless.

Phishing is the creation of email messages and web pages that replicate legitimate sites of well-known brands and businesses to con consumers into divulging personal financial information.

Visa reminded all cardholders to be aware of, and report, to the company phishing emails and dubious websites.
Despite Visa’s preventive efforts, it said prompt action by cardholders was an important link in stopping those fraudulent activities.

Visa said neither the payments network nor its member banks would initiate contact with cardholders by email or phone, especially when seeking their personal or confidential information.

It said to guard against phishing activities, Visa was collaborating with NameProtect, a digital asset protection company that monitors online data theft and other forms of payment fraud targeting Visa brand and member banks.

For a safe online shopping experience, Visa advised cardholders to use a secured web browser, keep tabs on transactions and to always protect card details.

Cardholders can report phishing and phony requests at phishing@visa.com or call 03-2330 2907.


Source : TheEdgeDaily