Phishing

Phishing Vs. Fishing

Phishing: the fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information or data, such as usernames, passwords and credit card details, by impersonating oneself as a trustworthy entity in a digital communication (Wikipedia)

Fishing: the activity of trying to catch a fish (Wikipedia)

Well, fishing is definitely more fun and (should be) less harmful. Phishing is how hackers and fraudsters try to obtain your personal information, or install spyware on your computer. Here are some tips on how to recognize and avoid phishing from the FTC:

• Generally try to come from a legit business
• Will attempt to get you to take immediate action 
• May have a weblink or an attachment for you to download
• Review the sender for what email address it is actually coming from
• Reach out to the company directly to confirm the validity of any communication (using contact information outside of the email)

How can you protect yourself:

• Make sure your spam/junk folder is on for your inbox
• Use security software
• Automatic Software updates

If you believe you have been a victim of phishing report it! Click HERE for more information about phishing and how to report it!