Just because steps are being taken to defend ourselves against Phishing attacks, there is still plenty to be concerned about according to PCWorld. It seems that this problem remains an issue on the rise and there is not sign of it really slowing down anytime soon.

The number of phishing attacks grew slightly during February, and there was also increased malicious software use, a group that monitors attempts at online identity theft says.

There were 13,141 unique phishing e-mail messages reported to the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG) during February, up 2 percent on the number reported to the group in January. The number of phishing Web sites supporting these activities rose to 2625, up 1.8 percent compared to the prior month, according to the group.

APWG compiles its data using information from ISPs, network administrators, law enforcement agencies, and individuals.

Phishing is a form of online identity theft that uses spoof e-mails and fraudulent Web sites, among other techniques, to lure people into divulging personal financial data such as credit card numbers, account usernames, passwords, and, social security numbers. [Read the rest]