Hyperlinks are very commonly used on the internet. These links are typically used to reference other pages or websites related to the email you’ve received. In some cases, you can’t always tell if this link safe, which can lead to your private data ending up in the wrong hands.
Phishers create malicious links, disguising themselves as financial service websites, like banks or credit card companies, as well as e-commerce or parcel delivery services to steal your personal information or company data.
While phishing links can be found on the web, they are more commonly sent via email. Being aware of the risks that hyperlinks carry should be an essential part of cybersecurity for every Pittsburgh business.
Tips for Determining if an Email or Link is Phishing Attempt
In most cases, emails that appear to be from financial companies or delivery services claiming there is an emergency or a deadline to provide sensitive information, threaten to close your account, or block you from it, are fictitious emails. You should not provide information in response to these emails because they are phishing scams. Other ways to identify a phishing scam include:
Check out how the email is addressed. If the email begins with a more informal greeting such as Dear User, rather than your name, it may indicate a scam. You may also be addressed by your email name, which is another indication of a phishing attempt.
- Watch out for verification emails. Phishers commonly ask people to verify their details to get them to verify their bank account details due to urgent security issues or some other ploy to get you to reveal your data. If you are not sure, check out the company website or call them to verify the situation before you enter any information or click on any links provided. Don’t use the phone number provided in the email but one you know is tied to the organization in question.
- Look at the full email address. Rather than just checking the short email that shows up on your mobile app, it is vital to check the complete information of the sender. Click on display full header to view the full email address.
If you’ve already followed the phishing link and entered your login details or other personal data, it is recommended that you go to the actual site that your information is from and change the login details. You can also inform the company about the situation and forward them any suspicious emails you receive where the phishers are pretending to be them.
Professional Cyber Security Services for Your Business
CMIT Solutions of Pittsburgh South is proud to serve business in the area by providing the most effective and comprehensive security services among the top IT companies in Pittsburgh. Learn more about phishing and how to protect your company’s data from these types of scams by contacting the experts at CMIT Solutions today.