Recognizing a phishing email is crucial for protecting yourself and your business from cyber threats. Phishing emails are designed to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information or performing harmful actions. Here are some tips to help you identify phishing emails:
1. Check the sender's email address: Scammers often use email addresses that closely resemble legitimate ones but may have slight variations or misspellings. Be cautious if the sender's email address looks suspicious or unfamiliar.
2. Look for generic greetings: Phishing emails may use generic greetings like "Dear Customer" instead of addressing you by your name. Legitimate companies usually address you personally.
3. Verify links before clicking: Hover your mouse over any links in the email without clicking them to see the actual URL. Phishing emails often include deceptive links that direct you to malicious websites.
4. Watch for urgent or threatening language: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency, claiming your account will be suspended or that you must take immediate action. Scammers try to pressure you into making impulsive decisions.
5. Check for spelling and grammar errors: Phishing emails often contain spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, or awkward language. Legitimate organizations typically have professional communication.
6. Examine the content: Be cautious if the email asks you to provide sensitive information, like passwords, Social Security numbers, or credit card details. Legitimate organizations won't request this information via email. One common trick is to make it appear like you need to enter your Microsoft 365 credentials to download an attachment.
7. Be wary of attachments: Phishing emails may contain malicious attachments. Don't open any attachments unless you are expecting them and can verify their legitimacy.
8. Verify unexpected requests: If an email asks you to perform an unexpected action, such as wire money or install software, double-check its legitimacy with the sender through a different channel (phone call, official website, etc.).
9. Look for mismatched logos and branding: Phishing emails may use incorrect or outdated logos, inconsistent branding, or low-quality images. Legitimate organizations maintain a consistent brand image.
10. Check the email format: Be suspicious of emails that appear poorly formatted or unprofessional. Legitimate organizations usually have well-designed emails.
11. Use security software: Employ reliable antivirus and antiphishing software to help detect and block potential phishing attempts.
12. Trust your instincts: If something feels off or suspicious about an email, don't ignore your gut feeling. It's better to be cautious and verify the email's authenticity before taking any action.
Remember that phishing tactics evolve, so staying vigilant and informed about the latest phishing techniques is essential for protecting yourself and your sensitive information. Even the most diligent people can be tricked. Most attacks can be thwarted simply by protecting your password in a password vault such as keeper and by enabling multi-factor authentication with products such as Microsoft Authenticator, DUO, or Google Authenticator.
If you receive a suspected phishing email, report it to your email provider or the organization being impersonated. Lexcom can help provide you guidance on securing your business from cyber threats.
