PHISHING E-MAIL ALERT We have experienced an increase of customers who are reporting that they have received what appear to be authentic e-mail messages from reputable companies and/or organizations. This deceptive practice of “phishing” uses the legitimate “FROM” email addresses, logos and links to reputable businesses to inspire confidence in the recipient that the e-mail is a valid request. These e-mails are fraudulent and should be deleted immediately without response. The fraudulent email messages vary. The fraudulent e-mail may inform you that a recent electronic payment was rejected or it may request that you update your current information that they have on file. The e-mail instructions vary as well. Some of the fraudulent e-mails instruct consumers to provide sensitive personal information (name, address, date of birth, social security number, credit card number, bank account number, etc.) by return e-mail. Others instruct the customer to click on an imbedded link to obtain additional information about the e-mail. Always be alert to phishing messages – these are very dangerous to the consumer. Financial institutions and reputable companies NEVER contact customers via email to request that they update their personal or account information.Providing sensitive personal information leave consumers at risk for identity theft or clicking on imbedded links may launch dangerous malware inside the customer’s computer. The most recent reported phishing incidents are from customers that have received e-mails from NACHA, the National Automated Clearing House Association that handles all ACH payments in the country. The email indicates that a recent ACH payment has failed and that they should click on a link for more information. This executable link has been known to launch malware in the e-mail recipient’s computer if launched. If you receive any of these types of e-mails, do NOT respond and do NOT click on any links. The safest course of action is to delete the e-mail immediately. If you receive such and e-mail and have any questions, please contact your financial institution.