Phishing is a type of social engineering attack often used to steal user data, including login credentials and credit card numbers. It occurs when an attacker, masquerading as a trusted entity, dupes a victim into opening an email, instant message, or text message.
What is an example of a phishing attempt?
An email from PayPal arrives telling the victim that their account has been compromised and will be deactivated unless they confirm their credit card details. The link in the phishing email takes the victim to fake PayPal website and the stolen credit card information is used to commit further crimes.
What do you do if you get a phishing attempt?
If you suspect that an email or text message you received is a phishing attempt:
- Do not open it. ...
- Delete it immediately to prevent yourself from accidentally opening the message in the future.
- Do not download any attachments accompanying the message. ...
- Never click links that appear in the message.
