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Phishing emails are designed to look legitimate—but they almost always leave clues. Learn the warning signs so you can recognize and avoid them.
Modern scams are sophisticated. Fraudsters disguise emails and texts as legitimate messages, using links to trick you into sharing passwords, financial information or unknowingly downloading malware.
Watch out for phishing red flags
The email address doesn't match the domain of the sender, or it matches except for one minor detail (@macu1.com instead of @macu.com). They use poor spelling, grammar or punctuation. The company’s logo is slightly off. The email creates a sense of urgency. When you hover over a link, the web address directs you to a different company.* * Note: Many organizations use outside vendors to track email data, so this alone does not indicate phishing.
The email warns you of suspicious activity or a need to disable your account. They claim there is a problem with your account or payment information. They ask you to confirm personal information. They say you’ve won a contest or free merchandise, especially if you don’t recall entering the contest. The sender doesn’t address you by name or uses an incorrect name.
Something’s phishy!
The email below contains five signs of a scam, plus one amusing bonus. See if you can find them all.
