The e-mails are designed to appear as legitimate communications from US Bank, PayPal and other well known businesses asking for information concerning the individual consumer's account - including private identification information.
A spokesman said the e-mails bear official looking logos and often offer a legitimate looking Web site to visit. But consumer-protection advocates say they are scams.
John Glammery of the Attorney General's Office said legitimate companies don't ask for personal information or account information through telemarketers or through e-mails.
He warned people never to give credit card, bank account or other personal information to anyone over the Internet or telephone unless you, the customer, initiated the phone call.
For information, call 687-6300.
- Staff reports
