Phishers Almost Hook FBI Director

   

Posted: Oct 19, 2009

It turns out even the United State's top G-man has trouble recognizing a phishing scam when he sees one - and he's willing to admit it. 

During a recent address at the Commonwealth Club of California, FBI Director Robert Mueller related that he had received what appeared to be an email from his bank. A link in the email took him to a website, where he was asked a number of personal questions.

After answering a few of the questions, Mueller realized that the website seemed a bit suspicious and stopped before answering a question that requested his password. 

As a result of the experience, Mueller quickly changed his banking passwords. When he told his wife about what had almost happened, he passed it off as a learning experience. His wife, however, had a different take on the situation. 

"It is not my teachable moment," she informed him. "However, it is our money. No more Internet banking for you." 

There's no word as to whether she revoked his ATM privileges as well.

The story of Mueller's close call comes during October, which has been designated as National Cyber Security Awareness Month. A phishing scam like the one perpetrated on Mueller tries to obtain private information by posing as a legitimate financial institution. When consumers are in doubt about such a solicitation, they should report it to their bank.