Avoid Web Forgery Using Firefox

Reading time: 2 – 4 minutes

In addition to the many Internet security related measures I have written in the past, this succeeding post will provide another vital information that would benefit not just Firefox users but also those who were thinking about how your browser can help keep your personally identifiable information safe and secure whenever you surf the web.

I normally use Firefox as an alternative (among the other three well-known browsers) despite some performance issues I have with it because of its tight built-in Phishing and Malware Protection which I think is indispensable.

If you ever clicked on a link especially on IMs, chat rooms, social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, etc. while using Firefox then the image below popped up on your screen, it simply means that you are about to be a victim of Web Forgery. And what is Web Forgery?

Web Forgery on Firefox

Web Forgery, otherwise known as Phishing, is a form of identity theft that subjects a user to a fake website (that resembles the look and feel of a legitimate one) in order to steal sensitive information normally associated with financial matters such as credit card numbers, pin numbers, bank account details and other personally identifiable information.

A Paypal Phishing Attack that happened to me a few weeks ago is a concrete example on how Phishing Attacks operate (usually via email). Once you click on the link, it then brings you to the trap (which is the fake website) and the moment you give them your vital information, you’re screwed because they will scrape out all your money in the bank, in your credit card or in your Paypal account.

There are other instances wherein you’ll encounter that same message above especially when you run into Attack Sites. Attack Sites are websites that usually infect your computer with malware or it can turn a regular website into an Attack Site without the webmaster knowing it. Malware is normally passed on your computer if you download or install software from unknown sources or it can be simply be transferred if you come across such sites so if you’re browser can detect these types of threat, then I’d suggest that you don’t proceed.

More about phishing and malware protection via your favorite browser in my succeeding posts, stay tuned.

Tags: attack sites, browser protection, fake websites, Firefox, internet protection, paypal phishing, phishing, security threat, security-privacy, web forgery

Category: security-privacy