Security & Fraud Protection

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a fraudulent practice where cybercriminals attempt to deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, or social security numbers. These scams often take the form of deceptive emails, text messages, or websites designed to appear legitimate.

Stay One Step Ahead of Phishers

To help you stay protected, here are some important tips to keep in mind:

1. Be cautious with emails and messages: Exercise caution when receiving unsolicited emails or messages, especially those requesting personal information or urging immediate action. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
2. Verify the source: Before providing any sensitive information online, ensure that you are interacting with a trusted and verified website. Look for secure connections (https://) and familiarize yourself with the legitimate email addresses and contact information of the organizations you deal with.
3. Keep software up to date: Regularly update your operating system, web browsers, and antivirus software to benefit from the latest security patches and enhancements. This will help protect you against known vulnerabilities exploited by phishers.
4. Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords that include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts, as it increases the risk of unauthorized access if one account is compromised.
5. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Whenever possible, enable MFA for your online accounts. This additional layer of security ensures that even if your password is compromised, an attacker would still need access to your secondary authentication method to gain entry.
6. Be skeptical of urgent requests: Phishers often try to create a sense of urgency to trick victims into making hasty decisions. If you receive an unexpected request for sensitive information or payment, take a moment to verify its legitimacy through an alternate channel before taking any action.
7. Educate yourself: Stay informed about the latest phishing techniques and scams. By being aware of the tactics employed by cybercriminals, you can better protect yourself and your sensitive information.

We’re Here to Help

If you ever suspect fraudulent behavior or encounter a potential phishing attempt, please contact us immediately at 214.357.3328.