What is Phishing?
Phishing is a type of cyber attack that uses social engineering to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card information, or other personal information. It is usually done through emails, messages, or websites that appear to be from a trustworthy source but are actually designed to steal personal information.
Different types of phishing and ways to avoid them:
- Email phishing: An attacker sends an email that appears to be from a reputable source and asks for personal information.
- Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or suspicious emails.
- Verify the sender’s email address and look for inconsistencies with previous emails from the same organization.
- Be cautious of emails that ask for personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or social security numbers.
- Smishing (SMS phishing): An attacker sends a text message that appears to be from a trusted source and asks the recipient to click on a link or provide personal information.
- Do not click on links or call phone numbers in unsolicited text messages.
- Verify the sender’s identity by independently researching the organization or contacting them through a verified number.
- Vishing (Voice phishing): This is made through a phone call to steal sensitive information
- Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls that ask for personal information or offer to resolve an issue.
- Verify the caller’s identity by independently researching the organization or contacting them through a verified number.
- Do not call phone numbers provided in unsolicited phone messages.
- Website phishing: It is the creation of fake website to steal sensitive information
- Verify the URL of the website before entering any personal information. Look for spelling errors or unfamiliar domains.
- Use anti-virus software and keep it updated to protect against malicious websites.
- Do not enter personal information on websites that are not secure.
By being aware of these different types of phishing and taking steps to protect yourself, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a phishing attack.