FRAUD AWARENESS SERIES
what is phishing?
Phishing scams are a prevalent form of cybercrime that involve tricking individuals into divulging sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security numbers. Cybercriminals achieve this by masquerading as reputable entities in what appears to be legitimate communication channels, such as emails or text messages.
common examples of phishing
EMAIL PHISHING
This is the most commonplace form of phishing, where the scammer sends an email that appears to be from a well-known company, bank, or service provider. These emails often contain a link to a fake website designed to collect users' personal information.
Here's a phishing email example from Hook Security
SPEAR PHISHING
This is a more targeted form of phishing, where the attacker personalizes their message to a specific individual or organization, making the communication seem more legitimate.
SMISHING (SMS PHISHING)
In these scams, fraudsters send text messages posing as a reputable organization, enticing victims to provide personal information or click on a malicious link.
VISHING (VOICE PHISHING)
Here, scammers use phone calls to trick victims into revealing sensitive information. They might pretend to be from a victim's bank or a government agency.
ways you can avoid phishing scams
- Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Communications: Be wary of unexpected emails or texts asking for personal information. Legitimate organizations typically do not solicit sensitive data through these channels.
- Verify Links Before Clicking: Always hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking. If it looks suspicious or doesn't match the company's official website, refrain from clicking.
- Confirm the Request's Legitimacy: Never provide your personal information unless you are certain the request is legitimate. When in doubt, contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or email address.
- Install Security Software: Use comprehensive security software that can provide real-time protection against phishing attacks.
Remember, staying informed and vigilant is your best defense against phishing scams. Always think twice before clicking on links or providing personal information.
Are you ready to learn more about the scams to watch out for this holiday season?