How to Detect a Phishing Scam

1. Check the Email Address

Scammers often use email addresses that look legitimate. For example, something like SunTrust@forgowhen.com might seem real because it includes the word “SunTrust,” but it’s not. Always verify the domain.

2. Look at the Greeting and Grammar

Phishing emails usually don’t address you by name. Instead, they use generic greetings like “Dear Customer” or “Dear Valued Client.” The grammar is often poor, with awkward phrasing and strange sentence structure.

3. Watch for Emotional Appeals

Scammers may try to exploit your goodwill by asking for donations to a fake charity or claiming someone needs urgent medical help. Be cautious—legitimate organizations rarely ask for money through unsolicited emails.

4. Hover Before You Click

Phishing emails almost always include a link. Before clicking, hover your mouse over it to see where it actually leads. If the link doesn’t match the supposed sender’s domain (like ebay.com), don’t click it.

Real-World Example

We once received a phishing email that included a bomb threat demanding Bitcoin. The message was filled with grammatical errors and strange phrases like “My man is outside with the bomb switch.” It was clearly a scam, but still serious enough to warrant attention.

Stay Vigilant

Think of phishing protection like walking through a dark alley—you wouldn’t go in unprepared. The same goes for your inbox. Be alert, be skeptical, and verify before you trust.

Conclusion

We hope this guide helps you recognize and avoid phishing scams. Stay safe, stay informed, and protect your business.

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