How to avoid email phishing

Created by Gary Verdesoto, Modified on Thu, 20 Apr, 2023 at 9:55 PM by Gary Verdesoto

Email phishing is a type of cyber attack in which an attacker sends an email that appears to be from a trusted source in order to trick the recipient into providing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial information. These attacks can have serious consequences, such as identity theft, financial loss, and compromised systems.

To protect yourself from email phishing, it is important to follow safe practices when using email. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

1. Be cautious of unexpected or suspicious emails. If you receive an email from an unknown sender or one that you were not expecting, be cautious. Do not click on any links or download any attachments without verifying the legitimacy of the email.

2. Verify the sender's identity. Before taking any action in response to an email, check the sender's email address to ensure it is legitimate. If the email appears to be from a company or organization, verify the email address and domain name to make sure it is not a fake or spoofed email.

3. Do not share personal information. Be wary of emails that ask for personal information such as your username, password, or financial information. Legitimate companies will never ask for this information via email.

4. Use two-factor authentication. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by requiring a second form of authentication in addition to your password. This can help protect against unauthorized access to your accounts.

5. Keep your software up to date. Make sure you are running the latest versions of your operating system, web browser, and antivirus software to help protect against known security vulnerabilities.

6. Report suspicious emails. If you receive an email that you believe to be a phishing attempt, report it to your email provider or IT department immediately. This can help prevent other users from falling victim to the same attack.

By following these safe practices, you can help protect yourself against email phishing and other types of cyber attacks. Remember to always be cautious and verify the legitimacy of any emails before taking any action.