It was a rather dire sounding message intended to scare the recipient into complying with the request in the email.

Anytime we are told we might lose the use of our credit cards, our attention is riveted on the message. Our impulse is to take steps to prevent the termination of our credit cards. In Bob’s case, the message said that due to the high number of stolen credit cards, it would be necessary for him to verify his account information in order to be sure the cards really belonged to him. The e-mail indicated it was from Visa Security Service and provided a link. Well, of course, many of you recognize this as another phishing attempt, using fear to get consumers to respond and provide detailed financial information.

If Bob followed the instructions in the email he would find his credit card and identity stolen. Fortunately, he recognized a scam when he saw one and that the e-mail was not from Visa.