Protect Yourself from Scam Emails and Malware

Cybercriminals often use deceptive emails to trick people into clicking malicious links, downloading harmful attachments, or sharing personal information. Staying alert can help protect you and your devices.

Common Email Scams and Malware Tactics

• Phishing Emails: Messages pretending to be from banks, delivery services, or companies you trust, asking you to “verify” information, or click a link.
• Malicious Attachments: Files disguised as invoices, receipts, or documents that contain malware or ransomware.
• Urgent or Threatening Emails: Messages claiming your account will be closed, your password has expired, or you’re being charged unless you act immediately.
• Spoofed Sender Addresses: Emails that look like they come from someone you know - but are slightly altered (e.g., john.smith@company.co vs john.smith@company.com).

How to Stay Protected

Cybercriminals use emails, texts, and social media messages to try to steal information or install malware.

• Think before you click. Don’t click or open unexpected links, or attachments, even from people you know..
• Verify sender email addresses for spelling errors, odd domains, or unusual formatting.
• Be cautious of urgency. Scammers create panic to push quick decisions.
• Use strong, unique passwords, and enable multi factor authentication where possible.
• Keep software and devices updated to protect against known vulnerabilities.
• Install reputable antivirus/anti malware and allow automatic scans.
• Report suspicious emails to your IT/security team or mark them as spam.

If You Believe You’ve Interacted with a Scam Email

Follow these steps if you believe you have interacted with a email or text scam.

• Disconnect from the internet if you clicked a suspicious link or opened an attachment.
• Change passwords immediately for any affected accounts.
• Run a full antivirus scan on your device.
• Notify your IT/security team or service provider right away.
• Monitor accounts for unusual activity.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from scammers. Although no form of fraud protection is absolute, a combination of personal awareness and protective tools will make you as safe as possible.

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