According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, people lose $57 million in phishing schemes each year.* To keep yourself, your family, and your assets safe from phishing scams, it’s important to understand what they are and how to spot them so you can avoid getting “hooked.” This article outlines the basics you need to know.
Hackers often use phishing emails or text messages to try and get you to perform a specific task, such as clicking on a malicious link, opening a malware-infected attachment, or providing sensitive personal information or login credentials. Socially engineered phishing emails and texts are the most dangerous, because they often look like the real thing, posing as a company you know and trust.
While bad actors can be clever, there are often ways to spot a phishing email or text, if you pause and look closely. They may:
Congratulations, you’re “o-phish-ally” schooled in tips and tricks to help spot phishing schemes. Continue to be diligent, question what seems off and, back up your data regularly (and then again after that)!
We help you stay ahead and informed with these helpful tips and tricks