Phishing scams can be identified by observing a combination of suspicious characteristics in emails, texts, calls, or online messages that attempt to trick people into revealing sensitive information.crowdstrike+3

Warning Signs and Identification

• Sender address: Check for unfamiliar, misspelled, or subtly altered email addresses; messages from public domains (like gmail.com) pretending to represent trustworthy organizations are a big red flag.itgovernance+2
• Content and tone: Phishing emails often use urgent or threatening language to pressure quick action, deliver generic greetings (e.g., “Dear User”), and sometimes contain obvious spelling and grammar errors.consumer.ftc+2
• Suspicious links and attachments: Hover over any links to verify the true destination URL—look out for mismatched or shortened URLs. Beware of unexpected attachments, especially executable files (.exe), .zip files, or unusual document types.microsoft+2
• Requests for sensitive information: Legitimate companies rarely ask for passwords, banking details, or Social Security numbers via email or text. Be wary if the message does so.crowdstrike+2
• Fake branding: Poor formatting, incorrectly sized logos, or branding that doesn’t match the company’s real materials may indicate a scam.itgovernance+1
• Promises or threats: Scammers may claim account problems, offer fake refunds, prizes, or discounts, or threaten penalties for inaction to rush the recipient into responding.consumer.ftc+1
• Domain name checks: Look for subtle misspellings or extra/substitute characters in domain names (e.g., “amaz0n.com” instead of “amazon.com”).microsoft+2

Carefully examining sender information, message tone, and URLs can help prevent falling victim to phishing scams.crowdstrike+2

 
1. https://www.crowdstrike.com/en-us/cybersecurity-101/social-engineering/phishing-attack/
 
2. https://www.itgovernance.co.uk/blog/5-ways-to-detect-a-phishing-email
 
3. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-avoid-phishing-scams
 
4. https://www.bluevoyant.com/knowledge-center/8-phishing-types-and-how-to-prevent-them
 
5. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/protect-yourself-from-phishing-0c7ea947-ba98-3bd9-7184-430e1f860a44
 
6. https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/spoofing-and-phishing
 
7. https://www.fortinet.com/resources/cyberglossary/types-of-phishing-attacks
 
8. https://security.uchicago.edu/phishing/how-to-identify-a-phishing-scam/
 
9. https://www.occ.gov/topics/consumers-and-communities/consumer-protection/fraud-resources/phishing-attack-prevention.html

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