7 Ways to Avoid Phishing this Easter

By Iconis admin Cyber Security Apr 05, 2023 No Comments on 7 Ways to Avoid Phishing this Easter
Easter is a time for celebration, but unfortunately, it’s also a time when cybercriminals take advantage of people’s trust and goodwill to spread phishing scams. Phishing is a type of cyber-attack where criminals use fraudulent emails, messages, or websites to trick people into giving away sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or personal data.
 
Phishing scams can take many forms, including fake emails offering Easter-themed discounts or promotions, messages claiming to be from a friend or family member asking for help, or websites posing as legitimate retailers or services. These scams are often convincing and sophisticated, using social engineering tactics to prey on people’s emotions and vulnerabilities.
 
To help you stay safe from phishing scams during Easter, we’ve compiled a list of 7 tips you can follow:
 
  • Be suspicious of unsolicited emails:
 
If you receive an email from an unknown sender or a company you don’t recognize, be cautious. Don’t click on any links or download any attachments without verifying the authenticity of the email first.
 
  • Check the sender’s email address:

Cyber criminals often use fake email addresses or spoof legitimate ones to trick people. Look for misspellings or slight variations in the sender’s email address, and check whether the domain name matches the company’s official website.

  • Don’t disclose sensitive information:

Legitimate companies will never ask you to disclose sensitive information, such as your password, credit card number, or social security number, via email or message. If you’re unsure whether an email is legitimate, contact the company directly using their official website or phone number.

  • Look for security indicators:

Before entering any personal information on a website, check whether the site has a valid SSL certificate. You can usually tell by looking for a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar or a URL that starts with “https://” instead of “http://”.

  • Be wary of urgent requests:

 Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency or fear to pressure people into taking action. If an email or message claims that you must act immediately or face consequences, be sceptical and verify the information independently.

  • Use anti-phishing software:

 Many security software programs offer anti-phishing features that can help detect and block phishing emails and websites. Make sure your antivirus and firewall software are up-to-date and configured to scan for phishing attempts.

  • Educate yourself and others:

The best defense against phishing scams is awareness and education. Learn how to recognize phishing scams and share your knowledge with friends, family, and co-workers. Encourage them to follow the same precautions and report any suspicious activity.

 

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your sensitive information from phishing scams during Easter and throughout the year. Remember, always be cautious and skeptical when receiving unsolicited emails or messages and verify the authenticity of any requests before taking action. Stay safe and happy Easter!

  • Share:

Leave a comment

×