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1. Don’t Click Unknown Links
If you receive an email with a link you weren’t expecting, don’t click it.
Even if the message looks legitimate, links can lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.Tip: Hover over links (without clicking) to preview where they lead. If it looks suspicious, avoid it.
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2. Avoid Opening Unexpected Attachments
Attachments can contain harmful software (malware) that can infect your device.
• Don’t open files from unknown senders
• Be cautious even with known senders if the attachment is unexpected
• Common risky file types include .zip, .exe, or unusual documents -
3. Check the Sender’s Email Address
Scammers often use email addresses that look similar to legitimate ones.
• Look closely at the domain (the part after “@”)
• Watch for small misspellings (e.g., @companny.com instead of @company.com)
• Be cautious of emails from free domains (like Gmail or Yahoo) claiming to be from businesses
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4. Watch for Poor Grammar and Urgency
Many phishing emails contain:
- Spelling or grammar mistakes
- Unusual phrasing
- Messages that create urgency (“Act now!” or “Your account will be locked!”)
These are common warning signs of a scam.
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5. Never Share Sensitive Information by Email
Legitimate organizations will not ask for sensitive information like:- Passwords
- Banking details
- Personal identification numbers
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6. When in Doubt, Don’t Engage
If something feels off:- Don’t reply
- Don’t click anything
- Don’t download attachments
Quick Summary Checklist
Before interacting with an email, ask yourself:
- Do I recognize the sender?
- Was I expecting this message?
- Does the link or attachment seem safe?
- Does the email look professional and legitimate?
If the answer to any of these is “no,” it’s best to avoid interacting with the email.
