Anti-phishing firm Wombat Security Technologies offers these six tips to help consumers and business avoid phishing email scams designed to steal sensitive information:
- Do not open coupon attachments: Most legitimate coupons are posted on a company's website, where you should always go to get your coupons. In general, avoid attachments and do not download anything from a source you do not recognize.
- Do not just click that link: Typically e-cards are hosted on websites. Instead of clicking on the link, type the business name of the e-card host into your search engine and ensure it is a legitimate business.
- When in doubt, delete: If something looks a little strange, such as the name of the sender or an unusual subject line, just delete it. It is better to delete than run the risk of getting a virus.
- Have an eye for details: Watch out for misspelled words or names, and be careful of a coupon or e-card sent by someone you do not know or an odd URL.
- Do not just connect: Even in the season of giving it is important to be cautious. This is especially relevant on Facebook and LinkedIn – don’t connect with people whom you have not met in person.
- Ensure secure payments: Make sure your internet connection is secure. Do not make purchases over public WiFi, and double-check that you are shopping on sites with “https:” in their URL.
“When consumers fall for phishing attacks, which come in many forms during the holidays, it is unfortunately not just their own data that are at risk, but also the enterprise’s data. Many personal devices are being used in the workplace”, said Joe Ferrara, Wombat president and chief executive officer.
“We want to make sure that people protect themselves and their companies from these types of attacks”, he added.