What is a phishing attack?
Phishing is a type of cybercrime where attackers send fake messages that appear to come from legitimate companies or people you trust. The goal is to trick you into clicking a malicious link or downloading a harmful file. When you click the link, you might be taken to a fake website that looks real, where criminals can steal your login information, financial details, or other sensitive data.
How to spot a phishing email
Check the sender's email address carefully—it may look similar to a real company email but have a slightly different spelling. Look for generic greetings like "Dear Customer" instead of your actual name. Hover over any links (don't click them) to see if the web address matches what the email claims. Be suspicious of any message asking you to verify your password, confirm your account, or update your payment information by clicking a link.
Common warning signs
Phishing messages often create a sense of urgency, saying things like "Act now or your account will be closed" or "Suspicious activity detected." They may contain spelling mistakes, poor grammar, or unusual formatting. Legitimate companies usually address you by name and won't ask for passwords through email. If an offer sounds too good to be true—like winning money you didn't enter—it's likely a scam.
What to do if you receive a phishing message
Don't click any links or download any attachments. If the message claims to be from a company you use, contact that company directly using a phone number or website you know is real, not information from the email. Report the phishing email to the company and to your email provider. You can also report suspicious messages to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing.org.
How to protect yourself
Use strong, unique passwords for each online account so that if one is compromised, others stay safe. Enable two-factor authentication when available, which adds an extra security step when logging in. Keep your browser and operating system updated with the latest security patches. Be cautious about what personal information you share online. 
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