Protecting from Phishing Scams: How to Stay Safe Online

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As the internet continues to grow, so does the potential for scams. One of the most common ways scammers steal personal information is through a concept called “phishing”. Phishing typically involves fraudulent emails or text messages designed to gain access to banking information, passwords, or social security numbers. With this information, scammers can then access bank accounts, steal money, or sell information to other scammers.

Unfortunately, phishing scams happen every day, and many are often successful. As the internet ever evolves, so do these types of scams. However, there are ways to identify phishing and protect from becoming a victim.

Ways to identify phishing:

Phishing scams tend to rely on psychological manipulation to trick users into giving out personal information. Scammers craft their story to exploit emotions and push the reader into immediate action. Here are some common tactics that they use:

  1. Prey on Fears
    • Scammers often state hat someone may miss out on an opportunity, are losing money, or are at risk of being locked out of an account.
    • Example: “Your account has been suspended. Click here to fix it.”

 

  1. Create a Sense of Urgency
    • Many phishing scams claim the user must act FAST or immediately to avoid consequences, and/or secure a limited-time offer.
    • Example: “Immediate action required – unauthorized charges detected.”

 

  1. Target Positive Emotions
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    • Phishing attempts aren’t always negative. Some may try to appeal to desires for rewards or free goods, offering “too good to be true” deals like gift cards, free money, or free tickets.
    • Example: “Congrats! You won a free concert ticket! Click here to reserve your prize.”
  1. Act Like a Trusted Sender
    • Scammers often disguise themselves as someone you can trust. They could pretend to be from a company you know or as someone close to you, like a granddhild, nephew or old friend.
    • They may use familiar brand logos, company names, and even tailor messages to appear as if it was sent from someone you know.
    • “You have always been someone I felt I could trust. Can you help me with a situation I’m in?”

 

What to Do If You Suspect a Phishing Scam:

  1. DO NOT RESPOND
    • Whether it’s a message in your inbox or on your phone, never respond to a phishing message. Responding to their message will confirm that your contact information is active, leading to more potential scams.
  1. Report the suspicious message
    • If you receive a suspicious message via email, you can report. With most email services, click the three dots near the reply button and select “Report Phishing”.
    • For text messages, tap on the three dots near the top of the sender’s phone number and click “block and report”.
  1. Take Extra Precautions
    • NEVER click on unknown links or download any unknown attachments
    • Avoid sharing personal information unless you are certain the request was sent from a legitimate source.
    • Keep your software and programs updated to minimize any vulnerability.
    • Use a multi-factor authentication for extra added security.

As the internet continues to evolve so do the tactics used by scammers. It’s critical to stay aware and proactive to protect your personal information. Here at Kavod Senior Life, we care about the safety and security of our residents. We inform our residents in both Senior and Assisted Living to contact their care coordinator or a family member if they ever feel unsure of a message or request.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can help ensure your information stays safe.

Sources:

  1. How To Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams | Consumer Advice
  2. How to Spot Phishing Emails & Tips to Avoid Them | Proofpoint AU
  3. How to protect against phishing: 18 tips for spotting a scam
  4. What Is Phishing? Examples and Phishing Quiz – Cisco

*Crafted with the help of Chat GPT