Consumer Alert- Phishing Scams Continue to Target South Dakota Consumers

PIERRE, S.D. - Attorney General Larry Long said today that phishing scams continue to target South Dakota consumers. The Consumer Protection Division receives phishing emails daily from the general public as well as emails that target their own state email system. Phishing involves email messages sent out by fraudsters claiming to be legitimate organizations such as banking institutions, online payment services or retailers. The email typically requests recipients to verify or update personal information including date of birth, social security numbers, PIN numbers or account information. The goal of the fraudsters is to lure recipients to respond to the email and give the information that has been requested without question.

Typically the email will have a link that takes you to a fake website that looks identical, or very similar, to the organization’s legitimate site. By clicking on a link you may also be downloading software, such as "spyware" onto your computer which will record your personal information and forward this information to the fraudster. 

To avoid getting phished you should never respond to email messages that request personal or financial information and never click on a link that is attached to such email. Legitimate businesses do not send unsolicited email messages asking for personal information. To determine if the email is legitimate it is best that you contact the business or banking institution directly. 

If you have been a victim of a phishing scam or would like additional information contact the Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or by email at consumerhelp@state.sd.us.

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