Phishing is a form of fraud that attempts to use email or malicious websites to acquire sensitive information such as account credentials, bank account information, and Social Security numbers.

 

Be aware of the common signs of phishing scams:

 

1. Suspicious sender address

Check the sender's address carefully and make sure it's really coming from who it says it's coming from.

 

 

2. Spoofed web links

It is possible that a link in an email appears to go to a safe, familiar website, but actually directs you to a malicious website. Before you click on a link, hover over it and check that it matches the text in the email. Never click on a questionable link sent from an email.

 

3. Spelling, grammar, and layout

Phishing emails often have poor grammar, sentence structure, spelling errors and formatting issues. Reputable organizations generally send professional communications.

 

4. Suspicious attachments

Be skeptical of unsolicited emails containing attachments. Scammer's emails sometimes contain attachments that are actually malware. Never click on an attachment from an unknown source.

 

5. Threats or a false sense of urgency

Phishing emails often try to persuade a user to act by trying to convey a sense of urgency. They warn of dire consequences unless you follow their instructions, or lure you with false promises.

 

6. Generic salutation

An email that begins with a generic greeting, rather than your personal name, may be a phishing attempt.

 

If you are unsure whether an email is legitimate or not, create a ticket and we will help you figure it out.