An email hoax is a commonly used Internet scam tactic targeted to specified demographics, markets or causes, including:

• Charities, such as missing children
• Nigerian scams
• Lottery scams
• Dating scams
• Chain letters
• Fake security warnings

For example, an email hoax may be a bogus warning about a non-existent security threat or virus. This type of email hoax creates a sense of urgency that goads recipients into downloading purportedly safe repair software.

Email hoax prevention is possible through education. Web users of all levels are encouraged to stay on top of continuously changing Internet and email security issues.