As mentioned in our last blog, phishing is particularly worrisome because there are so many different versions of the scams. This video describes how phishing has grown from simple mass emails to official looking messages that can even fool professionals.
The scam emails are becoming more complex by name-dropping popular stores, airlines, and banks. Phishing emails often copy the logos and letterheads of site such as Amazon and Facebook. And the most troubling thing about the new scams is that that they can follow you almost anywhere by reaching you through your cell phone.
Luckily, there are ways to avoid being fooled by the new phishing schemes. Be sure to carefully read all you emails and unsolicited texts, and look for errors in grammar or spelling. Scammers write their messages in a rush, so they commonly may mistakes. Then, check to see who the message is addressed to. If the message does not list you by name or was send to numerous people, then it is probably not legitimate. Next, make sure that any and all links on the message are secure. You can do this by hovering your mouse arrow over the link. The web address should appear in the corner of the screen. If it does not match the link typed by the sender, then DO NOT click. If an email seems suspect, then type the web address yourself instead of clicking the link. And if the message name-drops a major company, then do not hesitate to contact the legitimate company to confirm any suspicions.
READERS,
what do you think?
Are you
more likely to trust an email if it comes from a company you know?
Do
people needs better online habits?
References
KSDK. (2012). 'Tis the season… for phishing scam emails.
[Video file]. Retrieved from http://www.ksdk.com/video/1280452927001/1/Tis-the-season-for-phishing-scam-emails
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