One of the most popular scams happening in the security world today is called phishing. Phishing attempts are emails, websites, or phone calls designed to steal money or information from your account.
Criminals attempt to convince you to install malicious software or provide criminals with information such as account numbers, social security numbers or passwords that allow access to your accounts and enable them to make transfers to an account they establish to steal from you undetected.
Here are a few sure-fire ways to spot a phishing attempt and how to protect your account from criminal intent.
- Look at the spelling and grammar in any communication. Many attempts originate from foreign sources which may not use proper English or grammar.
- Be extra cautious of links in emails. They can be designed to look like one thing and really be another. Never click on a link if you are in any way suspicious about the source or are unsure of the source. Let your instincts be your guide.
- Promises to “reward you”. They attempt to entice you to do specific tasks in order to receive a prize or earn money. Again, trust your instincts. If it sounds too good to be true it most likely is. Unless you are 100% sure, do not do what they ask---doing so will open up your accounts to criminals.
- Attempting to gain your trust by making you believe they are a friend, coworker, or reputable business.
- Attempting to scare you. Scare tactics examples include: “You need to click this now,” “send this information or your account will be closed,” etc.
- Attempting to get you to take immediate action. For example: for you to click or answer the question without thinking about it.
- Stop and take the time to analyze every email.
- Do you know for certain who the sender is?
- Really stop to think, does this seem right?
- Would this person normally send something like this?
- Is this out of the ordinary?
When receiving an email, stop and think about the warning signs above. Never take action unless you are certain who the sender is and you know their intent is honest. If you are ever unsure please contact Marquette Savings Bank for guidance.
Be aware & be safe.
