Watson Cybersecurity

Recognize, Respond, and Reporting Phishing Emails.

Jan 05, 2024

Understanding Phishing

Phishing is a cybercrime where targets are contacted by email, telephone, or text message by someone posing as a legitimate institution. The aim is to lure individuals into providing sensitive data such as personal information, banking and credit card details, and passwords. Let's delve into how to recognize, report, and respond to phishing.

phishing cybercrime

Recognizing Phishing

Phishing attempts often appear to come from trusted sources, such as your bank or a social media site. They often use scare tactics or urgency to trick you into revealing your information. Here are some tips to help you recognize phishing:

  • Emails or messages that ask for personal information: Legitimate companies never ask for your personal information via email or text message.
  • Spelling and grammar mistakes: Phishing emails often contain poor grammar and spelling mistakes.
  • Generic greetings: Phishing emails usually don't use your real name. Instead, they use generic greetings like "Dear Customer."
phishing email example

Reporting Phishing

If you suspect that you've received a phishing email, it's important to report it. Here are the steps to do so:

  1. Do not respond to the email or click on any links.
  2. Forward the email to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at [email protected].
  3. Report the phishing attempt to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.
report phishing email

Responding to Phishing

If you've fallen for a phishing scam, don't panic. Here's what you need to do:

  1. Change your passwords: This includes email, banking, and any other accounts that may have been compromised.
  2. Contact your bank: If you've given out your credit card information, contact your bank immediately to report the fraud and protect your accounts.
  3. Report the incident: Report the phishing attempt to your local law enforcement and to the FTC.
respond phishing attack

Stay Safe Online

Remember, the key to avoiding phishing scams is to always be skeptical of any email or message that asks for your personal information. Always double-check the source and never click on suspicious links. Stay safe online!