10 Steps To Spotting Phishing Scams

Recognising the telltale signs of cyberthreats is crucial in protecting your systems. Here are ten steps that every staff member should be aware of key strategies for identifying and avoiding phishing scams.

1. Scrutinise the Sender

Cybercriminals often disguise themselves as legitimate entities by spoofing email addresses. Always check the sender’s domain name carefully for any subtle alterations. Even if an email appears to come from a trusted source, verifying the sender’s identity is a prudent first step.

2. Look for Typos and Errors

Phishing emails often contain spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Attackers are typically less concerned with perfection, which means that even minor errors can be a red flag indicating a potentially fraudulent message. The use of multiple fonts and text sizes is another red flag

3. Be Wary of Urgency

Phishing scams often create a sense of urgency, pressuring recipients to take immediate action. Messages that insist on quick responses or use scare tactics to elicit sensitive information should be treated with caution. Always take a moment to assess the situation before responding.

4. Hover Over Links Before Clicking

Before clicking on any links in an email, hover over them to see the actual URL. If the link looks suspicious or doesn’t match the display text, it’s best not to click on it. This simple step can prevent you from inadvertently accessing malicious websites.

5. Don’t Share Sensitive Information

Legitimate organisations, particularly banks, will never ask you to share personal information through email. If you receive such a request, it’s a good idea to verify it by contacting the organisation directly using a known, trusted communication method.

6. Check Attachments Carefully

Attachments in phishing emails can carry malicious software. If you’re uncertain about the source of an email, it’s safer not to open any attachments. Hovering over the attachment to see if it includes a suspicious link is another useful precaution.

7. Check the Tone and Language

Phishing emails often use language that is either too formal or overly casual, which can seem out of place for the organisation they’re pretending to represent. Pay attention to the tone of the message and compare it with previous legitimate communications you’ve received from the same entity.

8. Regularly Monitor Your Accounts

Stay vigilant by regularly checking your financial and online accounts. By staying on top of your account activities, you can quickly spot any unauthorised changes and take action to mitigate potential damage.

9. Inspect the Email Signature

Legitimate organisations have consistent email signatures, including contact information and sometimes disclaimers. Phishing emails may have generic or incomplete signatures. If the signature seems off, it could be a sign of a phishing attempt.

10. Keep Your Systems Updated

Ensure that your devices and applications are up to date with the latest security patches. Outdated systems are more vulnerable to attacks, so regular updates are a critical aspect of maintaining your cyber security.

Stay Informed, Stay Vigilant

Phishing scams are a common but dangerous threat. By staying informed and applying these simple detection techniques, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these scams. Remember, if something feels off, it’s always worth double-checking before taking any action.