Phishing scams are fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information by pretending to be a trustworthy entity in electronic communications.
Description
Phishing scams are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to deceive individuals and organizations into revealing sensitive data, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal information. Typically, these scams are carried out through emails, messages, or websites that appear legitimate but are designed to trick users. For instance, a phishing email may look like it comes from a recognized bank, asking the recipient to verify their account information by clicking on a provided link. Once clicked, this link may lead to a fake website that mimics the bank's official site. In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic saw a surge in phishing attempts, with attackers exploiting fears and uncertainties to lure victims. Phishing scams can have severe consequences, including identity theft, financial loss, and damage to an organization’s reputation. To protect against phishing, individuals and businesses should be vigilant, verify the source of communications, and educate themselves about common phishing tactics.
Examples
- A fake email claiming to be from PayPal, asking users to update their payment information.
- A text message impersonating a delivery service, urging the recipient to confirm their shipping address via a malicious link.
Additional Information
- Phishing can also occur through phone calls, known as vishing, where attackers pose as legitimate companies to extract personal information.
- Spear phishing is a targeted form of phishing, where attackers customize their messages to a specific individual or organization to increase the likelihood of success.