Hello! Of all the computer attacks that we can suffer on the network, Phishing is undoubtedly one of the most dangerous. Indeed, cybercriminals aim to steal our passwords by this means. In addition, they can launch an attack via SMS or email, mainly. In this post, we will give 5 tricks to be protected to the maximum. Consequently, we will prevent them from compromising our security and privacy through this strategy. Read on to learn how to avoid Phishing and getting robbed.
Tips to avoid Phishing attacks
The best way to avoid a phishing attack is to really know how it works. Phishing is a strategy whereby a hacker launches a bait for the victim to click and log in. In fact, it is usually something that pretends to be legitimate, such as a bank web page. However, we are actually sending the information to a server controlled by the attackers.
Observe
The first tip to avoid a Phishing attack is to observe. Indeed, when you receive an SMS or an email, you should take a good look at the content. Look at the appearance of the message and the link. In fact, they often use shortened links or HTTP sites. Another aspect to watch out for is the information they are sending, which is usually going to be an alert.
Just by taking a good look at that message, we can realize that it is a fraud. Our bank, the social network they are trying to impersonate, or any other platform, will never ask us to enter our password in a message. Likewise, they are not going to alert us of a problem and ask us to log in.
Log in only to apps or websites directly
Of course, another key point is that you should only log in to applications or web pages directly. Let’s say you need to log in to your bank account to resolve a supposed problem that you have been informed about by e-mail or SMS. In such a case, never log in from the attached link. What you should do is to log in to the application or the website.
This way, you make sure that your data will be protected. You are going to log in through reliable means, without exposing that information. If you send it from a link that has come to you through a Phishing attack, your password could be stolen as soon as you send it.
Enabling two-step authentication
More and more platforms have the option to use multifactor authentication or 2FA. What does this mean? To log in, you are going to have to put in more than just your password. Therefore, it is usually a code that arrives by SMS. Even use a two-step authentication application to verify the action. If an attacker manages to steal your password through a phishing attack, they would still need that second step to get in. So, with 2FA, you are creating an extra layer of useful security.
Do not expose data
This is rather common sense. Hackers can launch Phishing attacks after having previously obtained your personal data. Indeed, they may have found out your email address or your phone number. In this way they create a more personalized attack, looking for a way to scam you.
For example, you should never make your e-mail address public in open forums or through comments on web pages. Nor should you publish your telephone number. This way, you will be protecting your personal data.
Use a good antivirus
One more tip to prevent Phishing attacks is to use a good antivirus. Phishing attacks can not only steal passwords, but also sneak in some type of malware. If we have programs that help us to protect ourselves, we will avoid the entry of many varieties of malicious software.
Therefore, always keep in mind the importance of having a good antivirus installed. For example, Windows Defender is a good option. However, there are many more available that you can install on all types of operating systems.
Use a good browser
A good way to protect yourself is to use a good web browser. That is, one that can block many of the threats. Security studies indicate that some web browsers are more effective at blocking these types of threats. Specifically, Microsoft Edge and Mozilla Firefox prevent most of these types of attacks. In contrast, the most popular browser of all (Google Chrome) is much less effective at blocking these threats.
Avoid opening attachments and clicking on links in unsolicited e-mails.
If you receive an e-mail requesting personal or financial information, do not respond. If the message invites you to access a website through a link included in its content, do not do it. You should know that serious organizations are already aware of this type of fraud. Therefore, they do not request information by this means. We also recommend accessing the official website of the organization by entering the corresponding Internet address in your browser. You can also contact the banking institution directly. For this purpose, you only have to use the numbers provided by them.
Ultimately, we have seen some tips to avoid phishing. Of course, the best thing to do is to use common sense. See you later!
