Email can be a hacker’s best friend. It is the perfect opportunity to get or give fraudulent information. Phising emails can make you unknowingly share your password information. Emails with viruses attached can do real damage to your file security. If users are not careful, they can easily get into real trouble and become the victim of identity fraud or worse. Luckily there are a number of basic precautions you can take to protect yourself when you receive a suspicious email. Read on to make sure you are doing everything you can to keep your identity and your data safe.
Double Check That Link
Phising websites will look like legitimate ones you are likely familiar with, like Banking or Social Media sites, but when you put in your login, password, or credit card information you are just providing hackers with the keys to the castle. One way to tell the difference between a legitimate and a phishing link is to double check that the URL reads as you expect it to.
Also, modern web browsers like Safari, Firefox, Google Chrome, and Internet Explorer offer visibility into those sights which have been issued and Extended Validation (or EV) Certificate. These certified sites are usually noted as such by a green icon in the URL space of the browser. If the link leads you anywhere but the site you expected it to take you to, don’t enter your username or password. Chances are that it is a phishing attempt.
Be Careful What You Download
Viruses transfer very easily by email attachment. Only download attachments from contacts who you trust. Even then, occasionally your friends, family, and coworkers email accounts may be victim to a hack attack, so only download the files that you expect to receive from your closest contacts. If you receive an unsolicited email with an attachment, the safest thing to do is just delete the email. If it seems important, you can always contact the company directly to verify the validity of the email and the attachment. Adding that extra layer of protection will serve you well.
Never Provide Sensitive Information Over Email
The most important tip we can share is to never provide personal account information by email. Vetted companies like banks or stores won’t ask for your credit card information or account information by email. Never share your social security card number or bank pin number either. Information like your mother’s maiden name, answers to security questions, or previous addresses all can be used to steal your identity. In fact, unless you check with the requesting company, it’s better to just avoid responding to any requests for personal information by email. If you want to check, you can always visit the company’s website for a different email address to contact to confirm the legitimacy of the email. It’s an extra step or two, but it really is the safest thing to do.
For more excellent tips to help you maintain your digital security, contact the team at Happy Faces Records Management today.
