On average, Americans receive about three scam calls per day. Luckily, most phones will let you know when the call isn’t legitimate; or if it’s a text, they’ll allow you to report it as junk. But what about phishing scams targeted at your business? These are a bit harder to identify, but with these quick tips, you’ll be spotting them in no time.
Phishing: Don’t fall for the bait!
Phishing is similar to scam phone calls or emails because the messages you receive are from an unsecure sender. However, phishing scams are a bit more intense. These are designed to gain access to your business’s private information and possibly install malware into your system, steal your money or identity, or even gain access to your clients’ information and begin contacting them. The intent here isn’t to just steal money, but information as well.
What do they look like?
The number one identifying trait of a phishing scam is poor grammar or misspelled words. If you notice that the language is choppy or difficult to understand, do not interact with it. The same goes if you are being offered large amounts of money or assistance with a problem that doesn’t exist.
These are easy to spot. However, over time hackers have become more creative with their schemes. Phishing emails are now being designed to look like regular emails in your inbox, tricking you into thinking they’re from a friend, colleague, retailer or vendor that you trust. At first glance, they look trustworthy. Make sure you read thoroughly to determine if it’s real.
Steps you can take to protect your business
Here are a few things you can do to decrease your chances of being scammed:
- Set up multifactor authentication across all of your devices. This serves as another layer of protection in case a hacker is able to access your accounts.
- Update your devices and software frequently. These updates will be able to defend against the latest security threats that tend to target widespread amounts of people.
- Back up your data so you have access to it in case a hacker is able to access any of your information, systems, or accounts. This will help keep you in business.
- Make sure your employees know what a phishing scam (or really any scam) looks like so they don’t interact with risky texts, phone calls, or emails. Keep them up-to-date on good cybersecurity practices!
If you find yourself involved in a phishing scam, contact Brady West of Rothenberger Insurance Services for assistance in resolving the issue! Start defending your business today and purchase cyber insurance.
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