In today’s digital world, we often hear about the dangers of phishing attacks. But what exactly is phishing, and how can you protect yourself from falling prey to these malicious attempts? In todays “Tech Thursday”, we’ll explore the basics of phishing and provide you with some tips on how to stay safe online.
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What is Phishing?
Phishing is a type of cyber attack where fraudsters attempt to steal your personal information such as passwords, credit card details, or other sensitive information by impersonating a trustworthy entity. The attackers often use deceptive tactics such as fake websites, emails, or messages to trick you into providing your information.
How to Protect Yourself from Phishing Attempts?
Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself from phishing attempts:
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- Be cautious of emails or messages that ask for personal information, even if they appear to be from a trusted source. Always verify the authenticity of the sender and double-check the website URL or address before sharing your information.
Keep your computer and mobile device updated with the latest security patches and antivirus software to minimize the risk of malware attacks.
Use two-factor authentication wherever possible, especially for critical accounts like banking or email accounts.
Stay informed about the latest phishing techniques and scams by regularly checking reputable online resources such as cybersecurity blogs or news outlets.
Examples of Phishing Attacks
Here are a few examples of phishing attacks to help you recognize and avoid them:
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- Email Scams: Fraudsters often send fake emails that appear to be from legitimate companies or institutions, such as banks or government agencies, requesting you to verify your account details or download a suspicious attachment.
SMiShing Attacks: These are phishing attacks that occur through text messages or SMS. Attackers often send messages containing a link or a phone number that, when clicked or dialed, redirect you to a fake website or prompt you to enter your personal information.
Spear Phishing: This is a targeted phishing attack where the attacker impersonates a specific individual or organization that you trust. The attackers often gather information about you from social media or other public sources to make their attempts more convincing.
We hope these tips and examples help you stay safe from phishing attacks. Remember to always stay vigilant and cautious when sharing your personal information online.
If you have any questions, or are thinking that you may have been attacked, but want to make sure before opening an attachment or sending personal information, please reach out to ABI first so that we can confirm the person who is asking for that information, is legitimate.
