Home > Empowering Tips > Email Security Tips: Detecting a phishing mail

Phishing emails are designed to trick you into giving away sensitive information or downloading malicious software. Here are some ways to detect a phishing email:

1. Check the sender’s email address

Phishing emails often come from email addresses that are similar to legitimate ones, but with slight variations or misspellings. Be suspicious of any email from an unfamiliar sender or from a sender that appears to be from a legitimate company, but with a different email address.

2. Look for urgent requests

Phishing emails often include urgent requests, such as threatening to close your account or offering a limited-time offer that requires you to act immediately.

3. Hover over links

Phishing emails often include links that look legitimate but actually lead to a fake website. Hover over the link to see the URL and check if it is a legitimate website.

4. Don’t provide personal information

Phishing emails often request personal information such as passwords, social security numbers, or credit card information. Never provide this information unless you are certain that the email is legitimate.

5. Check the tone of the email

Phishing emails may use threatening or urgent language to try to convince you to take action. Be wary of emails that use these tactics.

6. Verify with the sender

If you receive an email that appears to be from a legitimate company but you are not sure, contact the company directly to verify the email.

By following these tips, you can help to detect and avoid phishing emails. It’s important to always be cautious when receiving emails from unfamiliar sources and to verify any requests for personal information or urgent action.