Avoiding Phishing Scams

Phishing scams come in different forms like text message, email, or a phone calls. People "fish" around for any information you'll give them. Here are a few examples of phishing scams.

Suspicious Email Attachments

If you aren't expecting an email attachment from someone, don't open it. If the attachment is malware, opening it could install the malware on your computer.

Suspicious Emails

When an email is received, you'll see the display name of the email account along with the email address. Email spoofing is the act of making an email appear as if it was sent from someone else.

If you get an email from someone requesting bank information or a bank transfer, you should confirm the email came from the person. Otherwise, you may send sensitive information to a scammer.

Website Pop-ups

Another type of scam becoming more common presents itself as a website with a pop-up. While browsing the internet, a new tab or window will open with messages stating there is something wrong with your computer. The website provides a phone number for you to call.

These scams may also prevent you from closing your web browser.

Word of advice: DON'T call the number. It is a scam. They will ask for payment, remotely access your computer, point out "problems" with your computer, and demand more money in order to resolve the "problems".

Making you think something is wrong with your computer is a scare tactic - in most cases, nothing is wrong with your computer.

If you receive a pop-up, reboot your computer. If the problem persists, you'll want to get your computer scanned for malware.

Unknown Software

As a general rule, avoid installing unknown software on your computer. If you're browsing the web and a file downloads by itself, don't click on it. Don't install software unless it came from a reputable source and you know what the software is.