DANGEROUS messages could be lurking in your text or email inbox right now.
An official AT&T security memo reveals how to avoid being caught out.
Scam messages and emails are a common way for crooks to part you from your money – or scoop up your private info.
This info could then be used to defraud, extort or blackmail you.
Phishing involves scammers pretending to be someone else (or a business) to trick you into handing over cash or information.
AT&T has offered up five tips to avoid getting caught in a phishing scam.
The first is to learn more about phishing itself.
“Read up on the latest scams so you know what to look for,” AT&T explained.
“Become familiar with what a phish looks like so you’ll know common tricks.”
That way, you’ll be able to easily spot the signs of a phishing scam lurking in your email or text inbox.
The second tip is to “use common sense”.
“Read emails carefully. See if you know the sender,” AT&T advised.
“Be suspicious of emails asking for personal or financial info.
“Also, be cautious when downloading email attachments or files, unless you trust the sender.”
Often the signs are obvious: unsolicited emails making requests or featuring strange attachments should be a huge red flag.
The third tip is to “practice smart browsing”.
“Before you enter any information, make sure the website you’re visiting is secure,” AT&T said.
“To better protect yourself, use a search engine to find info since they can catch misspellings and prevent you from landing on fake websites.”
Using a trusted search engine can help you avoid ending up on rogue websites – although it’s not a guarantee.
Be very careful especially when visiting smaller or more niche websites – or if you’re following an unsolicited link – to ensure it’s a safe page.
The fourth tip is to get technology on your side, especially when it comes to updates.
Often your devices will have blocks and safeguards against the latest scams.
But these typically depend on you regularly updating your software.
Keep your devices updated – and consider turning setting up automatic updates – to have the latest protections.
The fifth and final AT&T tip is to “be digital both offline and online”.
“Monitor bank and credit card statements for suspicious charges or transfers,” AT&T explained.
“Try to changing passwords regularly. Make sure you create strong passwords using a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
“Don’t use nicknames, birthdays, or details other people may know.”
Often it’s difficult or impossible to get your money or private info back after a successful phishing attack.
So it’s best to try to avoid being caught out in the first place by following cybersecurity advice.
