Phishing emails and texts have evolved over time from the basic ploy to get your personal information to very sophisticated schemes that leave you questioning. Passwords, bank account information and other account information are vulnerable to these scams, so it’s increasingly important to recognize the tactics and avoid them.
How Do I Recognize Phishing?
Scammers have the tools and cunning to make their messages seem legitimate. But there are some messages to look out for and question.
They may look like a legitimate communication from companies you trust. Whether it’s from your bank, Netflix, or even a government agency, scammers are doing their best to make their scams seem as authentic as possible.
- They may claim that there is a problem with your existing password.
- It could ask you to click on a link to make a payment.
- They could say that they’ve seen suspicious activity on your account.
- They may even include a fake invoice or coupon.
The end goal of these scams is for you to click on the link that they’ve attached with their message, which can then give them access to your personal information.
How Do I Protect Myself from Phishing Scams?
Automatic Software Updates
A simple way to ensure that you don’t come across these scams is to let your phone or computer’s software update automatically. When you get new software updates, you gain new protections from security threats and scams.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication
This sort of sign-in option makes it more difficult for others to log into your accounts. If you have an account that requires multi-factor authentication, you’ll need your password along with a secondary entry, such as a security code sent to another device or account. Even if a scammer were to have your username and password, this sort of authentication makes getting into your accounts more difficult.
When in doubt, never click a questionable link. Avoid logging into any account through these links. If you’re unsure, always reach out to the company directly or go to your account through your browser – not through the link. It can make a difference in protecting your data and personal information.