Today, the Internet has become an important part of our lives. We do a lot of work every day through mobiles and computers. Sometimes you do online shopping, sometimes you do banking transactions, sometimes you put your information on a website.
But have you ever thought that in the midst of all this, a small mistake of yours can put you in big loss? Yes, phishing scams are the biggest online fraud of today's time. This misdirection is done so cleverly that some of the time even sensible individuals get caught in it.
What is a phishing scam?
Phishing is an online trick in which fraudsters contact you in the title of a trusted substance or individual. They try to trap you through emails, messages or calls. Their purpose is to get your personal information, such as passwords, bank account numbers, card details or OTPs.
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For example, you get an email that says your bank account will be closed if you don't update your information immediately. Many people click on the link without thinking. The same link is fake and your information is stolen from there.
How does a phishing scam work?
Phishing scams are arranged very cleverly. Fraudsters frequently make websites or emails that show up to be genuine. Their e-mails frequently contain the words:
Your account will be blocked.
You have won.
Your delivery has been stopped, Click on the link.
These messages contain a fake link. As soon as you tap on that interface, you reach the fake site. Any data you put in there goes straight to the crooks.
How to identify a phishing email?
Phishing emails look very similar to real ones. But there are some signs that you can protect yourself by recognizing. A couple of points to note:
Suspicious e-mail address: Be sure to check the email address of the sender. , – info@bancofindia.com ( @bankofindia.com)
Wrong words or spellings: Phishing emails often contain language or spelling mistakes.
The pressure of haste: Emails contain words like "take action immediately" or "click now" so that you get the job done without thinking.
Suspicious link: Look for the actual website address by placing the mouse over the link in the email (without clicking). If the link is different from the real website, then it is fraud.
Phishing messages on mobile phones
Nowadays, fraudsters trap people not only by email, but also by SMS, WhatsApp or social media. For example:-
You get a message, "Your bank account will be closed. Click this link immediately. " Or "You will get a cashback of 5,000, just enter your OTP. " Such messages are always false and dangerous. Banks or government institutions never send such messages.
New ways to engage on social media
The craze on social media has also increased. On Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, many times pages are created that look like real brands. They trick you into winning an offer or a gift. For example, "Fill this survey and get a coupon of 1,000." "People are coming forward with information. But all this information goes directly to the scammers. So remember...
Don't click on any unknown link. Don't put your bank or card information on any website. Do not share your information in the name of offers and gifts.
How to distinguish between a real and fake website?
It may be difficult to identify, but not impossible. Keep in mind:
The actual website address always starts with. There is a lock mark () next to the website. If the lock is not visible in the website or the address is strange, then it can be fake. The address of the bank or government site is continuously short and clear, such as www.sbi.co.in, www.uidai.gov.in.
How to secure yourself from phishing?
Awareness is the greatest safeguard. If you take after a few basic rules, you can effortlessly avoid phishing scams. Simple security measures:
Don't press on any suspicious link. Don't share your secret word with anyone. Don't share your bank account points of interest by means of SMS or email. Always have two-factor confirmation enabled. Be sure to alter your secret word regularly. Login as it were from the official site or app. Use anti-virus and firewalls.
What to do if the data is shared in error?
Sometimes individuals allow their data by mistake. In such a circumstance, it is critical to take a few steps quickly instead of freezing. Do this immediately:
- Informing the Bank:
If you have shared bank information, contact your bank immediately and get the card blocked.
- Change the password:
Change the passwords of all accounts immediately.
- Report fraud:
Report phishing emails or website information on cybercrime.gov.in.
- Don't share OTP or link:
Never send an OTP or link to anyone, even if they call themselves a bank officer.
Some additional tips
Don't trust any email or message that looks too good. Use only trusted websites for online shopping. Don't do banking or payments over public Wi-Fi. Teach your children about online safety.
Final Thoughts
A phishing scam is a trap that comes up in a new form every day. But if you are alarmed, carefully check each e-mail or message, at that point no conman can cheat you.
The Web is a great instrument, but it is our responsibility to utilize it safely. Remember - Security continuously begins with your possessive thinking. Think twice some time recently clicking on any interface, as a small care can spare you from big losses.
