Phishing scams are a type of cyber attack where the attacker tries to steal sensitive information like login credentials, credit card numbers, and social security numbers by posing as a trustworthy entity. Here's what you need to know about phishing scams and how to protect yourself.
Common Phishing Techniques
- Email Phishing: Attacker sends emails that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as your bank or a social media platform, asking you to click on a link or download an attachment.
- Spear Phishing: Targeted phishing attacks that are tailored to a specific individual or organization.
- Smishing: Phishing via SMS messages.
- Vishing: Phishing over the phone.
How to Spot a Phishing Scam
- Unusual Email Addresses: Look for email addresses that don't match the legitimate source.
- Spelling and Grammar Errors: Phishing emails often contain errors.
- Urgent Requests: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt immediate action.
- Suspicious Links: Hover over links to see if they lead to a different URL than what is displayed.
Protect Yourself
- Be Skeptical: Don't click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
- Use Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system and software to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest phishing techniques.
Learn More
For more information on phishing scams, check out our Security Tips.
Phishing Scams