- Suspicious Emails and Messages: Look for typos, grammatical errors, or unusual email addresses. Legitimate organizations typically use professional-looking emails.
- Urgent Requests: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency, urging you to take immediate action. Be cautious of emails that demand immediate attention.
- Unusual Links: Hover over links in emails before clicking on them to check the actual URL. If it looks suspicious or doesn’t match the expected website, avoid clicking it.
- Request for Personal Information: Legitimate organizations will never ask for your personal information via email or text. If you receive a message asking for sensitive data, it’s likely a phishing attempt.
What to Do if You Think You’ve Been Phished:
- Don’t Click on Links or Attachments: If you suspect an email or message is a phishing attempt, do not click on any links or open any attachments.
- Change Your Passwords: If you’ve entered your login credentials on a phishing website, change your passwords for all affected accounts immediately.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity.
- Report the Phishing Attempt: Report the phishing attempt to the organization being impersonated and to the appropriate authorities.
Remember: By being vigilant and understanding the tactics used by phishers, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these scams. Stay informed, stay safe, and help spread awareness about phishing scams.
