What type of social engineering attack uses email to direct you to their their website where they claim you need to update/validate your information and threatens dire consequences if you don't?

As far as I remember this type of social engineering attack is called fishing. You should be more patient. Check all the links you receive. They can be similar to links to the official websites, but there could be little differences. If you noticed this difference, DON'T follow this link. They will grab your e-mail and your password will be changed automatically.