Phishing for information
Phishing is sending fraudulent communications that appears to come from a legitimate and reputable source, usually through email and text messages (Cisco, 2019). Today we will review the threats it poses.
Phishing: a Virtual Threat
What is phishing? Phishing is using social engineering to create a sense of urgency to complete a transaction. These emails usually contain copied login pages sites that you use every day. E-mail services such as Google and Yahoo automatically block spam e-mails from entering your main inbox and allowing the hacker gain account information. Attackers will use data acquired to hijack online accounts and allowing them withdraw funds from financial accounts or encrypt your data requiring you to pay a ransom to get your data back.
You are your Biggest Enemy
When it comes to protecting yourself from phishing scams it is best to use caution when clicking links on your e-mail from untrusted senders. If you get an email saying there is an issue with an online account reach out to the company directly and never login in from an email link. Human error plays a huge part in computer breaches. Part of this is incorporating best practices when using online accounts. Some of these best practices are changing your password often and frequently. Limiting what you make available online.
Conclusion
To conclude, Phishing attempts use social engineering and virtual messaging to attempt to gather information to hijack online accounts. You are the best defense against phishing attempts, by using care and caution you can prevent your accounts and computers.
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