What Is Phishing and How Do I Protect Myself From It? Free Antivirus Software

What is a phishing attack?

 The scams, which can appear as an email, text message, or instant message, masquerade as a trusted entity. It hopes that you will willingly hand over your information by clicking on a malicious link. The majority of these scams (51 percent) lead to a malware attack, according to Small Business Trends.

  

With a malware attack, a hidden file gets installed on your computer. The file performs tasks such as making unauthorized purchases, stealing funds, or initiating identification theft. Some malware attacks also hold your device hostage. In these cases, you will need to pay a bonus before regaining access to your computer.

How to spot scams?

When it comes to bluffing a deception, the first thing you need to embrace and remember is the term, if something is too good to be true, it probably is. In more obvious terms, if you get a text or email promising you quick cash or some prize, then it is definitely a scam.

Phishing scams can include, but are not limited to, these examples:

Letters promising government refunds

Freebies available with one click

Notifications alerting you to suspicious activity or login attempts

Fictitious bills require payment

Note that your last payment was not accepted

Examples

Phishing.org has posted footage of real-life examples of the scams. This includes a fake Paypal security notice, a fake Microsoft notification, and a LinkedIn attack, among many others.

Here is an example of a Microsoft phishing message:

Microsoft fake technical support

How to protect yourself from deception

To avoid falling victim to a phishing scheme, follow these basic steps:

Software updates

The first thing that you can do to protect yourself from phishing scams is to install total security software on your device. And yes, this is just Windows. You should also ensure that your computer's operating system is always up to date. Make sure to turn on automatic updates to make this happen.

So, also turn on automatic updates on devices. Companies that love  Google do a great job of identifying and thwarting attacks. However, it is up to you to make sure that updates are installed on your devices right away.

You should also consider installing a free Google phishing tool, which alerts you if you entered your Google account password somewhere other than accounts.google.com.

Use multi-factor authentication

Increasingly, companies offer or require multi-factor authentication to protect your account information. With this type of authentication enabled, you must enter two or more credentials to log into your account.

For example, with multi-factor authentication - also called two-factor authentication or two-step verification, you may be asked to add a passcode that you receive via an email, text message, or authentication app. Depending on the organization, it may also be necessary to scan your fingerprint, retina, or face.

Always use multi-factor authentication when offered; If you are not given a choice, then ask if you should do business with that organization.

Yes, use a strong password

You also need to create strong passwords and keep them safe. To better protect your passwords, keep in mind:

Using 10-12 characters for your password

Don't use common names, dates, or words in your passwords. Instead, use a mixture of numbers, letters, and symbols. Also, use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters

Do not use the same password for different accounts

Consider purchasing a password generator app/service like 1Password or Dashlane.

Do not share passwords over the phone or via email/text.

If you must type a password, make sure it is closed and out of sight.

Just make purchases on secure sites

In 2019, no one should purchase items on an unsafe site. Unfortunately, it's still happening. To make sure the site you are visiting is secure, look for https at the beginning of the web address.

Back up your data

That way, if there are problems, you can get online as quickly as possible.

It's likely a scam, what next?

If you suspect that the received email or message is a fraud, you should first ask yourself if you are familiar with the account or company that made the contact. If no, report the message, then delete it from your device. If the answer is yes, you should contact the company directly using a phone number or website that you know as a project.

Are you concerned that you have already responded to the phishing plan? In this case, visit IdentifyTheft and follow the steps to take based on the information you fear losing.

IdentityTheft

You should also take things a step further and report the fraud to the authorities. A good starting point for this is FTC connectivity.

On the FTC website, you will be asked to choose the category and subcategories of the complaint. If you cannot find a match, select the "Something Else" option. From there, you will need to answer a few questions about your complaint and let them know what happened in your words.

Deception, unfortunately, won't go away, but there are things you can do to protect yourself. with free antivirus software, you can use this software and save these types for phishing attacks. By following these steps you will go a long way to adding additional levels of security to your device. Peace of mind will follow!