Not meant to patronize or advise. I just want to remind you that there is still sky above the sky, and the same goes for the world of technology. Also, scammers are always updated by always following the latest technological developments by looking for loopholes to trick and deceive many of their victims.
Here is a short article about scammers, phishing emails and how to protect yourself in detail:
1. What is a Scammer?
Scammers are individuals or groups who attempt to defraud others for financial purposes or personal information. They use a variety of methods, including phishing emails.
2. What is Phishing Email?
Email phishing is a fraud attempt in which an attacker sends a fake email that appears to be from a trusted institution (for example, a bank or company) to steal personal or financial information. Here are some signs of phishing emails:
- Unknown messages: Be careful with emails from senders you don't know.
- Grammar and spelling errors: Phishing emails often have grammar and spelling errors.
- Urgency: Scammers often create emergency situations for you to respond quickly.
- Suspicious links or attachments: Do not click on links or open attachments from suspicious emails.
- Requests for personal information: Be wary of emails that ask for personal information such as passwords or credit card numbers.
3. How to Protect Yourself from Phishing:
- Do Not Respond to Phishing Emails: If you are suspicious of an email, do not respond to it.
- Report to Email Provider: Report phishing emails to your email provider. In Gmail, you can report by clicking the three-dot icon next to the "Reply" button and selecting "Report phishing." In Outlook, click the three dots icon and select a similar option.
- Update Security Software: Make sure your security software is always updated.
- Protect Phone: Set your phone device to keep it updated.
HOW TO Detect FAKE LINKS IN EMAIL/BROWSER
1. Check the URL: Hover over the link without clicking on it. Note whether the URL is as expected. If there is a difference, don't click.
2. Pay attention to the REVOX Domain in the two images attached to this article: Check the domain (website address) in the link. Make sure it is from a legitimate source.
An example of a phishing email that I received this afternoon with a domain similar to the original REVOX site but fake as shown in the attached image below, if you receive a similar email in the name of REVOX telling us to claim $RGT token rewards, it is certain that it is a phishing email from a scammer!!
3. Beware of Short Links: Fraudsters often use short links (e.g. bit.ly) to hide their true purpose. Avoid clicking on such links.
4. Check Spelling and Punctuation: Fraudsters often create fake domains with similar spellings. Watch for suspicious punctuation and special characters.
5. Don't Rush: Scammers often create urgency (e.g. "You have to click now!"). Don't rush and consider carefully before clicking.
6. Use Email Security: Enable email security features that automatically check links and alert you if anything looks suspicious.
🔶 PREVENTIVE ACTIONS IF YOU ARE EXPECTED BY A PHISHING EMAIL.
Here are the steps you need to take:
1. Don't Panic: First of all, stay calm. Do not panic. You're not the only one experiencing this.
2. Don't Click on Links or Attachments: Don't click on links or open attachments from suspicious emails. It could download malware or redirect you to fake sites.
3. Report Email: Report phishing emails to your email service provider. There is usually an option to report the email as phishing. This helps email providers block fraudsters.
4. Change Password: If you click a link and enter personal information, immediately change the associated account password. Use strong and different passwords for each service.
5. Check Account Activity: Check activity on your accounts (for example, bank accounts, social media, or email). If there is any suspicious activity, report it to the service provider.
6. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on your account. This adds an additional layer of security.
7. Check Computer: Check your computer with security software. Scan for malware and viruses.
📌 Remember to always be careful and alert to suspicious emails. If you have been a victim of fraud, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or your email service provider.
🔶 Always remember to be careful and protect your personal information. Hope you stay safe!