Allow us to explain some expert tips on how to identify phishing links to help protect yourself from falling victim to any dangerous attacks!
Phishing attacks have become very sophisticated and targeted. This makes it more important than ever for internet users to know how to locate malicious links. Attackers continue to exploit human errors by using cleverly disguised phishing links to trick people. Users that click usually reveal sensitive information like login credentials, personal information, and financial details. Allow us to explain some expert tips on how to identify phishing links to help protect yourself from falling victim to any dangerous attacks!
Hover Over Before You Click
One of the simplest ways to check your link’s legitimacy is by hovering over your mouse if you are on your desktop or laptop. When you do this, the actual URL will appear in a tiny box at the bottom left of your screen. If the link does not match the domain it claims to be from, like emails claiming to be from PayPal but linking to another website, that is a red flag. On mobile devices, you could often long press, or press and hold, a link to see the URL before opening it. Always double-check that the URL looks right before clicking. If you’re ever in doubt, look up the vendor to validate the right domain. You could also check with your organization’s IT team to see if they can help.
Look for Misspellings and Weird Characters in the URL
A common phishing tactic is using any misspellings and subtle changes within the URL to make it look real. For example, a phishing link may use a similar link but with one letter replaced with symbols and numbers that look the same. These slight changes could easily go unnoticed, especially if you are in a hurry. In addition to look like letters in a domain name watch for the addition of any solitary “S” to the end of any domains. Double-check your URLs for accuracy by running Google and AI searches for the vendor’s right domain, just to make sure.
Look for HTTPS, But Do Not Count on It Entirely
Most real websites use HTTPS, indicated by a padlock icon on a browser’s address bar, to help encrypt data between your browser and your website. However, cybercriminals have caught onto this, and a few phishing websites now use HTTPS to look accurate and secure. While HTTPS is a great sign, it is not foolproof. Always consider different factors, like the source of the email, the URL, and the context of the message. Give En-Net Services a call to see how we can assist you in sniffing out phishing links!
En-Net Services Can Help Today
Experience a superior method of getting the public sector technology solutions you need through forming a partnership with En-Net Services. Our seasoned team members are familiar with the distinct purchasing and procurement cycles of state and local governments, as well as Federal, K-12 education, and higher education entities. En-Net is a certified Maryland Small Business Reserve with contract vehicles and sub-contracting partnerships to meet all contracting requirements.