How to spot Phishing
Aug 06, 2024Fraud Prevention
Tips and Tricks for Spotting Phishing Attempts in Emails and Text Messages
In today’s digital age, phishing attempts have become increasingly sophisticated, making it crucial for everyone to be vigilant about protecting their personal information. Phishing scams often come in the form of emails or text messages that appear to be from legitimate sources but are actually designed to steal your personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or social security numbers. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you spot phishing attempts and keep your information safe.
1. Check the Sender’s Email Address or Phone Number
Phishing emails often come from addresses that look similar to legitimate ones but have slight variations. For instance, an email from “support@paypal.com” could be mimicked as “support@paypa1.com” (note the number 1 replacing the letter l). Always double-check the sender’s email address or phone number for any discrepancies.
2. Look for Generic Greetings
Phishing attempts often use generic greetings like “Dear Customer” or “Dear User” instead of your actual name. Legitimate companies usually personalize their communications, addressing you by your name.
3. Beware of Urgent or Threatening Language
Phishing messages often create a sense of urgency or fear to prompt immediate action. Phrases like “Your account will be suspended,” “Immediate action required,” or “You have been hacked” are common. If a message seems urgent, take a moment to verify its authenticity through other means.
4. Inspect Links Carefully
Hover over any links in the email without clicking on them to see the actual URL. If the link looks suspicious or does not match the company’s official website, do not click on it. Phishing links often lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.
5. Look for Spelling and Grammar Mistakes
Many phishing emails originate from non-English-speaking countries and often contain spelling and grammar errors. Legitimate companies usually proofread their communications, so errors can be a red flag.
6. Check for Unusual Requests
Be wary of unexpected requests for personal information. Legitimate companies will not ask for sensitive information like passwords, social security numbers, or credit card details via email or text message.
7. Verify with the Source
If you receive a suspicious email or text, do not reply directly or use any contact information provided in the message. Instead, contact the company through official channels (like their official website or customer service number) to verify the message’s legitimacy.
8. Be Skeptical of Attachments
Avoid opening attachments from unknown or unexpected sources. Attachments can contain malware or viruses that can compromise your computer or personal information. If you are not expecting an attachment, verify its legitimacy before opening it.
9. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Enable multi-factor authentication on your accounts whenever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring not only your password but also another form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone.
10. Keep Your Software Updated
Ensure your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications are up to date. Security patches and updates often address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by phishing attempts.
11. Educate Yourself and Others
Stay informed about the latest phishing tactics and educate your friends, family, and colleagues. The more people are aware of phishing schemes, the less effective these attacks will be.
Conclusion
Phishing attempts can be difficult to spot, but with careful attention to detail and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can protect yourself from these malicious schemes. Always verify the authenticity of unexpected emails or text messages and remember that it’s better to be safe than sorry. By following these tips and tricks, you can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and keep your personal information secure.
Scott Cowan
Podcast Host | HAPO Community Credit Union
scott.cowan@hapo.org