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Oak Bay Police warn of email scam seeking banking information

iTunes bills look real, but thieves are 'phishing' say Oak Bay Police

The Oak Bay Police are warning of an email scam after getting several reports this week where residents received e-mails that appear to be from iTunes asking for personal information and financial details including credit card numbers.

"It has been established that this is indeed a scam and the iTunes Store has issued a warning on their website confirming this," said Const. Rick Anthony, community liaison officer in a press release.

The e-mail comes in the form of a bill from the popular online music and movie store.

"They appear authentic and official at first glance but this is what’s called phishing," Anthony said. "They look genuine but if you have any suspicions call the company directly to confirm or just check the internet for scam alerts involving similar circumstances. Do not click on the link that is embedded into the email."

The iTunes Store does not ask for personal or sensitive account information such as passwords or credit card numbers via email. If you receive a suspicious email notify iTunes Customer Support online at apple.com/support/itunes/store

"Please be aware that a financial institution or a large corporation will never ask you for personal

or financial details through an e-mail," Anthony said. "Protect yourself; do not give any personal information out to

anyone over the phone or the internet for any reason."