What is Phishing?
Phishing is a type of cyber attack where criminals disguise themselves as trustworthy entities to steal sensitive information.
How Does Phishing Work?
Phishing attacks typically occur through emails, text messages, fake websites, or phone calls. Attackers pretend to be banks, government agencies, or well-known companies to trick victims.
- Clicking on fraudulent links
- Downloading malicious files
- Providing login credentials
Common Types of Phishing
- Email Phishing: Fake emails pretending to be from a legitimate source.
- Spear Phishing: Targeted attacks aimed at specific individuals or companies.
- Smishing: Phishing via SMS (text messages).
- Vishing: Phishing via phone calls.
How to Identify a Phishing Attempt
- Urgent messages demanding immediate action.
- Suspicious sender addresses.
- Poor grammar or spelling errors.
- Unusual links or unexpected attachments.
Protect Yourself from Phishing
- Verify Email Senders: Double-check before clicking links.
- Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of security.
- Keep Software Updated: Stay protected from vulnerabilities.
- Never Share Sensitive Information: Legitimate organizations never ask for passwords via email.
What to Do If You Fall for a Phishing Scam
- Change your passwords immediately.
- Contact your bank if financial details were shared.
- Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
- Run an antivirus scan on your device.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
Cybercriminals constantly evolve their tactics. Staying informed is your best defense.
Back to Home