Phishing Scams

About

Phishing scams are one of the most common forms of online fraud, where scammers send fake emails, text messages, or create fraudulent websites designed to trick victims into revealing sensitive information. The messages often appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks, government agencies, or well-known companies, and may include urgent requests to update account details, reset passwords, or verify identity.

Once the victim clicks on the link, they are directed to a fake website that mimics the appearance of a legitimate site. The victim may be prompted to enter personal information such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details, which are then captured by the scammer for use in identity theft or financial fraud.

Phishing scams can also involve malicious attachments or links that download malware onto the victim’s device. This malware can track keystrokes, steal information, or even lock the victim’s files, demanding ransom for their release (ransomware attacks).

To avoid phishing scams, it is crucial to verify the source of any unsolicited messages before clicking on links or downloading attachments. Always check the sender’s email address and compare it with the official domain, and avoid entering personal information on websites that do not have secure (HTTPS) connections.

Prevention

Always verify the authenticity of emails or links before clicking, and avoid entering personal information on untrusted platforms.