In the digital age, it is not enough to be aware of the potential danger of cyberthreats. It’s essential to stay ahead of the curve and understand how phishers are evolving their tactics and how you can protect yourself.
Here are five tips to combat phishing in 2023:
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1. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
One of the best ways to combat phishing is to use 2FA whenever possible. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from another device and your password when logging into an account. This makes it much more difficult for cybercriminals to access your accounts, even if they have your password.
2. Keep Your Software Up to Date
Another important tip is to keep your software up to date. Digital attackers often exploit security vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to people’s accounts. You can help protect yourself from these attacks by ensuring that your software is updated.
3. Use Anti-Virus Software
Anti-virus software can help detect and remove malicious software from your computers, such as viruses and spyware. Keep in mind that not all anti-virus software is created equal, so it is vital to do some research before choosing a program.
4. Be Careful When Opening Emails
One of the most common ways cyberattackers gain access to people’s accounts is by sending phishing emails. These emails appear to be from a legitimate source but are fake.
They often contain links or attachments that, if clicked, can install malicious software on your computer or redirect you to a fake website where you will be asked to enter personal information. To avoid phishing scams, you should be careful when opening emails, especially those from someone you do not know.
5. Train Your Employees
If you are a business owner, it is vital to train your employees on how to spot and avoid phishing scams. Many businesses have been victims of phishing attacks simply because their employees were unaware of the dangers and did not know how to identify an attack.
You can help reduce the chances of cybercriminals targeting your business by providing training on this topic.
Types of Phishing Attacks
Phishing has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, with attackers utilizing various techniques and tactics to deceive their victims. Here are some common forms of phishing attacks you should be aware of:
- Spear phishing: Spear phishing is a targeted phishing attack in which the scammer tailors their message to their target. Cyberattackers may even use personal information they have obtained through publicly available records.
- Vishing: Vishing (or “voice phishing”) is similar to spear phishing, but instead of using email messages, attackers will use phone calls as the medium for their attack. They may also use automated robocalls to try and trick victims into giving away sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers.
- Smishing: Smishing (or “SMS phishing”) is an attack that involves sending text messages containing malicious links. Attackers will often claim they are from legitimate companies like banks to convince you to click on links that can lead to infections on your device.
You can decrease your risk of phishing attacks by implementing 2FA, keeping your software updated, training your employees, using anti-virus software, and taking care when opening emails.
