Email scams are on the rise and it’s important to know how to avoid becoming a victim. One common way that computer viruses are spread is through email. Clicking on a rogue attachment or dangerous link in an email can lead to trouble. Hackers often use social engineering techniques to trick users into clicking on links or opening attachments that bypass firewalls and antivirus systems.
Here are some key things to watch out for in emails:
Strange “From” addresses: Check the sender’s email address and make sure it matches the legitimate source. For example, if an email claims to be from a bank like ANZ, but the “From” field shows a different domain like “azn”, it’s likely a fake.
Bad grammar or punctuation: Legitimate emails from reputable sources usually do not contain glaring grammatical errors. If you spot multiple errors in an email, it’s a red flag that it could be a scam.
Obscured links: Hover over links in an email to see where they lead. If the URL looks suspicious or unfamiliar, it’s best to avoid clicking on it.
Remember, knowledge is power. If you’re unsure about an email, ask yourself what the scammer wants. Personal information or cash are common targets. If the email is asking for either of these, be on guard. When in doubt, delete it.
Protect yourself from email scams by being vigilant and using common sense. Don’t fall for social engineering tricks and be cautious when opening attachments or clicking on links in emails. Stay informed and stay safe online.