Recognizing Phishing Scams

In today's digital landscape, cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated than they've ever been. One of the most common-and potentially devastating-types of attacks is phishing. Phishing scams trick people into revealing sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or even access to entire company networks. Here at DIR, we are dedicated to helping you recognize and avoid these threats. Now that Cybersecurity Month is here, let's dive into what phishing scams are and how you can protect yourself.

What Is a Phishing Scam?

Phishing scams typically come in the form of emails, texts, or other messages that appear to be from a trusted source, such as a bank, online retailer, or even your employer. These messages often contain a sense of urgency-like a payment issue or a suspicious login alert-and include a link or attachment for you to interact with. Once clicked, you may be prompted to enter personal information or unknowingly download malware.

How to Identify a Phishing Scam

DIR has outlined some key indicators that can help you identify phishing scams before they cause harm:

• Suspicious Sender Address: Even if an email looks like it's from a company you know, check the sender's email address. Phishing emails often come from addresses that look legitimate but may have misspellings or unusual domains (such as [email protected]instead of [email protected]).
• Generic Greetings: Phishing emails frequently use general salutations like "Dear Customer" instead of addressing you by name. Legitimate companies you interact with usually have personalized greetings based on your account information.
• Urgency or Fear Tactics: Be wary of emails that claim your account has been compromised or that demand immediate action to avoid losing access. Scammers create a sense of urgency to make you act before thinking. DIR encourages taking a moment to verify the message through official channels before taking any action.
• Unfamiliar or Suspicious Links: Hover over any links before clicking on them. If the URL looks suspicious or doesn't match the official website of the company, it's likely a phishing attempt. If in doubt, you should always manually type a company's web address into your browser rather than clicking on suspicious links.
• Requests for Sensitive Information: Legitimate companies will never ask you to provide sensitive information like passwords, social security numbers, or credit card details via email. If you receive such a request, it's likely a phishing scam.

What to Do if You Receive a Phishing Attempt

If you think you've received a phishing email or message, follow DIR's best practices to safeguard your information:

• Don't Click or Respond: Resist the urge to click any links, download attachments, or respond to the message at all.
• Report the Attempt: Notify your IT department or report the email to your email provider. DIR also encourages Texans to use resources like the Texas Cybersecurity Council to report scams.
• Delete the Message: Once you've reported the phishing attempt, delete the email or message from your inbox and trash folder to avoid accidental clicks.

DIR's Commitment to Cybersecurity

Phishing scams continue to evolve, but so do the ways we can protect ourselves. At DIR, we're committed to equipping you with the knowledge and resources to stay safe online. By staying vigilant and learning to recognize the signs of a phishing scam, you can avoid becoming a victim while keeping your personal information secure.

Take Action This Cybersecurity Month

At DIR, we're committed to helping Texans stay safe in today's digital world. But remember: cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By staying informed, following best practices, and using the resources available, we can all play a part in keeping our digital systems secure. Whether you're a business owner, a government official, a student, or a concerned member of the public, it's never too late to prioritize cybersecurity.

For more cybersecurity resources and tips, be sure to visit DIR's Cybersecurity Awareness webpage, where you'll find detailed information, educational materials, and tools designed to help you strengthen your cybersecurity efforts year round. Check it out to stay updated and learn how you can play a role in securing Texas in today's digital age.

For additional updates, follow us on Instagram, X, and LinkedInfor regular cybersecurity news and best practices to keep you informed and secure.