Tech Questions? Get the Answers: 7/3/2024

How to Spot and Avoid Phishing Scams

Phishing attacks continue to threaten individuals online, exploiting their trust and stealing sensitive information. Whether through emails, text messages, or phone calls, scammers employ clever tactics to deceive unsuspecting victims. Here's how you can protect yourself:

Recognize the Signs: Poor Grammar and Spelling: Be wary of messages with glaring errors. Legitimate organizations maintain professional communication.

Urgency and Pressure: Scammers often create urgency, urging you to act immediately. Take a breath and verify before responding.

Suspicious Requests: If an email claims unusual account activity or asks for personal details, proceed with caution.

Check the Sender: Inspect Email Addresses: Hover over sender names to reveal the full address. Look for inconsistencies or unfamiliar domains.

Generic Greetings: Beware of emails that lack personalized greetings or use generic terms like "Dear Customer."

Avoid Clicking Links: Hover First: Hover your mouse over links to preview the destination URL. If it looks suspicious, don't click.

Verify Legitimacy: Legitimate companies won't ask you to verify sensitive information via email.

Strengthen Your Defenses: Robust Passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for each account. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.

Stay Updated: Regularly update your operating system and software to patch vulnerabilities.

Avoid Jailbroken Devices: Jailbreaking compromises security; stick to official app stores.

Monitor Financial Activity: Review Statements: Check bank and credit card statements frequently for unauthorized transactions.

Be Skeptical: If something seems off, trust your instincts. Verify with the company directly.

Remember, vigilance is your best defense against phishing scams. By staying informed and following these guidelines, you can safeguard your personal

information online.

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