The Toolbar, powered by internet service provider EarthLink, is designed to enable consumers to determine the safety levels of websites before they reveal personal information that could make them vulnerable to fraud.
It also includes a pop-up blocker, a spyware audit program and a search tool, which is powered by Google to allow consumers to search the web, stock quotes, white and yellow pages and email accounts.
According to the Anti-Phishing Working Group, the number of phishing sites in 2004 rose by 760% from January to November. Equifax said it will use EarthLink’s ScamBlocker platform to access an encrypted database of known and suspected fraudulent websites that is frequently updated, to help protect users from the increasing threat of identity theft.
Vince Corica, group executive, personal solutions at Equifax, said: In an age where phishing scams and online fraud are becoming increasingly prevalent, the Equifax Toolbar is a free offering that empowers online consumers to become more effective guardians of their confidential information and privacy.
