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What is phishing?

Phishing is a type of cyberattack in which fraudsters attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by posing as trusted entities. These attacks are often carried out via fraudulent emails, fake websites or other forms of electronic communication. The goal is to trick unsuspecting users into revealing personal information that can then be used for fraudulent purposes.

Main features of phishing attacks

  • Deceptive emails and messages: Phishing campaigns often begin with a message that appears to come from a legitimate source such as a bank, social network or official agency.

  • Fake websites: Scammers often create exact copies of legitimate websites to trick users into entering their login credentials.

  • Immediacy and urgency: Many phishing attempts ask recipients to act immediately, often under threat of consequences such as account suspension or penalties.

  • Requests for personal information: Typically, these messages ask for sensitive data that would not otherwise be requested via email.

Phishing detection

Recognizing phishing can be challenging, as scammers are constantly refining their tactics. Here are some tips on how to spot phishing:

  • Check the URL: Check the URL for spelling errors or subtle variations that could indicate a fake website.

  • Be suspicious of unsolicited requests: Be skeptical of any unsolicited request for personal information.

  • Check the sender's address: Often fake emails are not from an official domain.

  • Look for grammatical errors: Many phishing emails contain grammatical and spelling errors.

Prevention and protective measures

You should take the following measures to avoid phishing attacks:

  • Using antivirus software and firewall.

  • Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.

  • Regular training and education on phishing tactics for yourself and employees.

  • Use phishing filters in email applications.

FAQ

Phishing is often broad-based and targets large groups of users, while spear phishing is targeted at specific individuals or organizations, often using personalized information to increase credibility.