Phishing' emails are one of the biggest threats to online banking customers. Hackers and scammers use 'phishing' emails to extract information from bank customers. They will disguise themselves as a bank representative and email you asking for sensitive information. To put on the pressure, they will generally try to convince you that your account will be suspended if you do not email them immediately. But if you do, they will take this information and use it to extract money from your account.

When you read about "phishing" scams, you probably wonder how anyone can fall for such an obvious trap, and you probably can't even imagine it happening to you. Most people think this, but every day, millions of people receive "phishing" emails and there are a small percentage of those who do respond. Many people reply because of the threat that appears in the email 'Your account will be terminated' which is enough to make anyone act before they think.

These emails fool people because of the look of the email as well. It will look very professional and it will seem like it came from the bank, but it is a fake. If you click on the link you are directed to a web page that also convinces you that you are at the bank wesite. Many people have noticed the warnings that are on their online banking website, stating that the bank will never ask for your personal information through an email or through the telephone. So remember that your bank will never contact you through either of these methods; and if they do for what ever reason, they will never ask you for your password or credit card details. If someone calls asking for your details, they are probably not who they say they are.

The most ironic thing about these emails is that they actually prey upon people's fears of being exposed to fraud. Some include comments stating that you will be a victim of fraud if you do not update your account.

Some online banks do email their customers with news updates, or telling you that your online statement is available but they will never ask you for sensitive information. But if you get an email asking for sensitive information, then it is more than likely a 'phishing email', so do not answer it. Either delete it or report it to your bank.