Think Before You Click: Spotting Phishing Scams
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to sharpen your digital instincts. One of the most common—and dangerous—threats we face every day is phishing. These scams are designed to trick you into giving up sensitive information, clicking malicious links, or downloading harmful attachments. The good news? With a little awareness, you can spot phishing attempts before they hook you.
What Is Phishing?
Phishing is a type of cyberattack where scammers impersonate trusted sources—like banks, coworkers, or popular companies—to deceive you. Their goal is to steal personal data, login credentials, or even financial information.
These scams can come through:
- Emails
- Text messages
- Phone calls
- Social media messages
Red Flags to Watch For
Phishing messages often look convincing, but they usually contain subtle clues. Here are some common signs:
- Urgent or Threatening Language
“Your account will be suspended!” or “Immediate action required!”—phishers want you to panic and act fast. - Suspicious Links or Attachments
Hover over links before clicking. If the URL looks odd or doesn’t match the sender’s domain, don’t click. - Spelling and Grammar Mistakes
Legitimate companies usually proofread their communications. Typos can be a giveaway. - Unusual Requests
If someone asks for sensitive info via email or text—like passwords or payment details—be skeptical. - Generic Greetings
“Dear Customer” instead of using your name? That’s a red flag.
How to Stay Safe
- Verify Before You Click: If something feels off, don’t click. Go directly to the company’s website or call their official number.
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Even if your password is stolen, MFA adds an extra layer of protection.
- Report Suspicious Messages: Most companies have a way to report phishing attempts. Help protect others by speaking up.
- Keep Software Updated: Security patches help protect against known vulnerabilities.
Cybersecurity starts with awareness. By learning to spot phishing scams, you become your own best defense. So this October, take a moment to think before you click—and help build a safer digital world for everyone.
