In particular try to note any information such as usernames, account numbers, or passwords you may have shared. While it's fresh in your mind write down as many details of the attack as you can recall. If you're suspicious that you may have inadvertently fallen for a phishing attack there are a few things you should do.

Note that the string of numbers looks nothing like the company's web address. In the following example, resting the mouse over the link reveals the real web address in the box with the yellow background. Instead, hover your mouse over, but don't click, the link to see if the address matches the link that was typed in the message. Suspicious links or unexpected attachments - If you suspect that an email message is a scam, don't open any links or attachments that you see. Like where the second 'o' has been replaced by a 0, or, where the 'm' has been replaced by an 'r' and a 'n'.

Also be watchful for very subtle misspellings of the legitimate domain name. Mismatched email domains - If the email claims to be from a reputable company, like Microsoft or your bank, but the email is being sent from another email domain like, or it's probably a scam. If the email starts with a generic 'Dear sir or madam' that's a warning sign that it might not really be your bank or shopping site. Generic greetings - An organization that works with you should know your name and these days it's easy to personalize an email. These errors are sometimes the result of awkward translation from a foreign language, and sometimes they're deliberate in an attempt to evade filters that try to block these attacks.

If an email message has obvious spelling or grammatical errors, it might be a scam. Spelling and bad grammar - Professional companies and organizations usually have an editorial staff to make sure customers get high-quality, professional content. When you get an email from somebody you don't recognize, or that Outlook identifies as a new sender, take a moment to examine it extra carefully.

Are you sure it's real? Slow down and be safer.įirst time or infrequent senders - While it's not unusual to receive an email from someone for the first time, especially if they are outside your organization, this can be a sign of phishing. Tip: Whenever you see a message calling for immediate action take a moment, pause, and look carefully at the message.

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