Phishing: Don't take the bait


10/8/2019

If someone suddenly appeared at your door askingfor your personal information, you’d be suspicious and rightfully so. It should be no different when someone approaches you through your computer or by phone asking for that information. These tips will help you recognize phishing scams and avoid becoming a victim.

The Bait

  • Scammers use familiar company names or pretend to be someone you know.
  • They ask you to click on a link or give passwords or bank account numbers. If you click on the link, they can in stall programs that lock you out of your computer and can steal your personal information.
  • They pressure you to act now or something bad will happen.

Avoid the Hook

Check it out.

  • Look up the website or phone number for the company or person who's contacting you.
  • Call that company or person directly. Use a number you know to be correct, not the number in the email or text.
  • Tell them about the message you got.

Look for scam tip-offs.

  • You don't have an account with the company.
  • The message is missing your name or uses bad grammar and spelling.
  • The person asks for personal information, including passwords.
  • But note: some phishing schemes are sophisticated and look very real, so check it out and protect yourself.

Protect yourself.

  • Keep your computer security up to date and back up your data often.
  • Consider multi-factor authentication—a second step to verify who you are, like a text with a code—for accounts that support it.
  • Change any compromised passwords right away and don't use them for any other accounts.