Phishing and malicious emails are a growing threat to businesses and individuals alike. With approximately one billion malicious spam emails sent daily, it’s crucial to stay vigilant. While some phishing attempts are easy to spot, others are highly sophisticated and can cause significant damage, especially for tech companies in Sydney. Below, we outline the top 5 characteristics of phishing emails that small businesses should watch out for.
1. The Email Makes Unrealistic Threats or Demands
Phishing scams often use intimidation tactics to pressure recipients into taking immediate action. Common phrases like “urgent action required” or “your account will be closed” are red flags. These threats are designed to create panic and prompt you to act without thinking.
Tip: Always verify the sender’s identity before responding to such emails. Learn more about how to identify phishing attempts on our blog.
2. There’s a Catch
A recurring theme in phishing campaigns is the eventual “catch.” For example, you might be asked to send money for fees or expenses. This is a clear sign of a fraudulent email.
Did you know? Our Managed IT Security Services include advanced spam filtering to block such malicious emails before they reach your inbox.
3. Poor Spelling and Grammar
Many phishing emails impersonate well-known companies like PayPal, Apple, or Facebook. However, they often contain spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. A legitimate email from a billion-dollar company would never be poorly written.
Pro Tip: If you suspect an email is fake, contact the company directly through their official website. For more tips, visit Scamwatch, a trusted resource for identifying scams.
4. A Mismatched or Suspicious URL
According to a study by the ABS, 30% of people click on links in suspicious emails, even when they suspect the email is malicious. To check if a link is safe, hover your mouse over it. If the URL doesn’t match the displayed text or looks suspicious, it’s likely a phishing attempt.
Stay Protected: Our Managed Spam Filtering System blocks over 13,000 malicious emails daily, ensuring your business stays safe.
5. You’re Asked for Sensitive Information
Be highly suspicious of any email requesting sensitive information like credit card numbers, passwords, or account details. Recently, spear phishing emails impersonating Bank of America employees targeted users for sensitive data.
Remember: Legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information via email. If you’re unsure, report the email to the Australian Federal Police or contact Scamwatch.
What Can You Do to Prevent Phishing Attacks?
As an Individual:
- Be aware of the characteristics of phishing emails.
- Report suspicious emails to Scamwatch or the Australian Federal Police.
- Always verify the sender’s email address, phone number, or message content to prevent identity theft.
As a Business:
At Milnsbridge, we specialize in Managed IT Security for businesses. Our advanced spam filtering system blocks an average of 13,000 malicious emails daily, including phishing attempts, spam, and malicious attachments.
If you’re concerned about your cybersecurity, contact Milnsbridge Managed IT Services today at 1300 300 293 or explore our Managed IT Security Solutions to protect your business.