Phishing Scams and Tips to Stay Safe

Phishing scams are becoming more common and more convincing. Knowing what to look for can help protect your account and personal information. Below is a simple overview of what phishing is, how to spot it, and what to do if something doesn’t feel right.

What Is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of online scam where someone tries to trick you into sharing sensitive information, like your login details or payment information. These scams often appear as emails or messages that look like they come from a trusted source, such as a business, service provider, or even a coworker.

How to Recognize a Phishing Message

Phishing messages often share a few common warning signs:

• Suspicious sender addresses
  Look closely at the sender’s email address. Scammers often use misspellings or extra characters that look legitimate at first glance.

• Urgent or threatening language
  Messages that pressure you to act immediately or warn of account suspension are often scams.

• Spelling or grammar mistakes
  Many phishing messages contain noticeable errors or awkward phrasing.

• Unexpected links or attachments
  Hover over links before selecting them to check where they actually lead. Avoid opening attachments from unknown or unexpected senders.

How to Protect Yourself

You can reduce the risk of phishing by following these best practices:

• Verify unexpected requests
  If a message asks for personal or login information, double-check by contacting the company through a trusted website or known contact method.

• Use strong, unique passwords
  Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts. A password manager can help.

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
  When available, 2FA adds an extra layer of protection to your account.

• Keep your software up to date
  Updates often include important security fixes that help protect against scams and malware.

What to Do If You Suspect Phishing

If you receive a message that seems suspicious:

1. Do not respond or select any links

2. Report the message to the appropriate support or security team

3. Change your password immediately if you entered your login information

4. Monitor your account for any unusual activity

If you’re ever unsure, it’s always safer to pause and verify before taking action.

Phishing scams rely on urgency and trust — slowing down and taking a closer look can make all the difference. Staying alert and using strong security practices helps keep your account and information safe.

If you’re concerned your login details may have been compromised, resetting your password right away (and encouraging others on your team to do the same) is one of the easiest and most effective steps you can take.