wyr.worldPhishing attacks are a type of cybercrime in which attackers attempt to trick users into revealing confidential information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security numbers. Phishing attacks can be carried out via email, phone, text message, or social media.
How to recognize phishing attacks
Phishing attacks can be very convincing, but there are some common red flags that you can look for:
Unsolicited emails or messages: If you receive an email or message from a company or organization that you don't know or that you're not expecting, it's probably a phishing attack.
Requests for personal information: Phishing emails and messages often ask for personal information, such as your password, credit card number, or Social Security number. Legitimate companies will never ask for this information via email or text message.
Suspicious links: Phishing emails and messages often contain links to fake websites that look like legitimate websites. If you hover over a link, you can see the actual URL of the website. If the URL doesn't match the website that the link is supposed to go to, it's a phishing attack. Poor grammar and spelling: Phishing emails and messages often have poor grammar and spelling errors. This is a sign that the email or message was not sent by a legitimate company.
Sense of urgency: Phishing emails and messages often try to create a sense of urgency by claiming that your account is at risk or that you need to take immediate action. This is a tactic that phishers use to trick you into making a mistake.
How to defend against phishing attacks
The best way to defend against phishing attacks is to be aware of them and to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips:
Never click on links in emails or messages from unknown senders. If you're not sure if an email or message is legitimate, contact the company or organization directly.
Never provide personal information in response to an unsolicited email or message. Legitimate companies will never ask for this information via email or text message.
Use a strong password manager to create and store unique passwords for all of your online accounts.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all of your online accounts. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your phone in addition to your password when you log in.
Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect you from phishing attacks.
If you think you may have fallen victim to a phishing attack, take the following steps immediately:
Change the passwords for all of your online accounts.
Contact your bank or credit card company to let them know that you may have been a victim of fraud.
Monitor your credit reports for any unauthorized activity.
Phishing attacks are a serious threat. They can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and other serious consequences. Phishing attacks are becoming more sophisticated everyday, but by being aware of them and taking steps to protect yourself you can avoid becoming a victim.