Colorado PEAK has just issued a warning that a fake website was recently discovered, used to deceive PEAK clients. The fake website is reported to not contain malware. However, there are links where a visitor may be tricked into providing information, or making a purchase.
PEAK reports in a bulletin that the State of Colorado is working to shut the website down, and taking action to prevent future threats.
For this case in particular, there are ways to make sure you are using the correct website for Colorado PEAK. Co.gov/PEAK is a secure website, and also utilizes the address coloradopeak.secure.force.com.
PEAK suggests the following to protect your information:
- Look for the secure lock in your address bar, and the web address will contain the https:// prefix.
- The PEAK logo is featured on PEAK websites and apps. Look for it along with the State of Colorado logo, and other familiar program logos.
- Clients never have to pay to apply, update their account, or ask questions about benefits.
- Clients should only share personal information with county office workers, PEAK community partners, and through the official PEAK website (look for the https:)!
You can look for the Colorado PEAK logo along familiar logos from the State of Colorado.
Protect your Personal Data
It’s important to always protect your personal data! This instance with the PEAK website helps amplify the importance of online security, and the responsibilities we all need to remember as internet users.
At Hometown Insurance Professionals, we want to help our community feel safer on the web too! So here’s a couple things to remember when you’re surfing the web.
As mentioned above, it’s important to always look for the https: prefix in a web address. A web address is also known as a URL. When a website is secure it will always start with https:. Many web browsers will show a secured pad lock icon next to the address as well.
Internet sites have to be verified to run an SSL certificate. The SSL certificate is what enables the secure https: prefix, and lock icon. Look for the lock and the https: if you are considering inputting data into any website!
If a Site Seems Phishy!?
If something just doesn’t seem right, it’s probably not! Often phishing and malware sites are filled with bad grammar, misspellings, and improper punctuation.
Fake shopping sites may have deals that seem just too good to be true. Don’t fall for those all too incredible sounding offers. Even if it’s for something you really want.
So, if it doesn’t seem right, ‘X’ out of that tab, and DO NOT input any personal information.
Image credit: Colorado PEAK
Online Scams
Online scammers are on the loose! You’d think people could put their energy into better things, but some people think taking from others is a better use of their time. Be aware that they are out there, and in times like these can be even more prevalent.
Be vigilant in your web surfing, and don’t click links in emails unless you are absolutely sure who the email is from!
Google has gotten pretty good at detecting malicious sites over the years. If you search a site through Google, it’s scanners will put up a warning page between the search results, and the website to prevent users from visiting. So, if you think a site looks phishy, try and search it on Google.
Here to Help
We hope you find this information useful! Let us know how we can help you with your insurance needs. If you have questions about PEAK, or other coverage options in Colorado, or New Mexico, give us a call @ +1 (970) 264-4321 or email to info@hippsllc.com!