How to Prevent Systems from Phishing Attacks?

What are Phishing Attacks?

Phishing attacks are one of the biggest and most frequently faced cyber threats faced by organizations these days. Phishing attacks are scams which are increasing with time and cybercriminals are making huge profits out of them.

Phishing attacks are the process of sending duplicitous communications that appear to come from a trustworthy source. Common phishing attacks include social media, text messages, by phone, URLs, and most commonly via emails.

The goal of Phishing Attacks includes the following −

• To steal sensitive data like credit card and login information

• To install malware on the victim’s machine system

• To freeze the system as part of a ransomware attack

• To reveal of confidential information of an individual or organization.

Phishing emails are extremely well planned and created to make them very eye-catching for the receivers. It occurs when the victim opens such emails or clicks on unknown yet attractive links or instant messages which lead to the above mentioned goals of the attacker. So, it requires the right information to spot the genuine from the fake. Through emails, they can target millions of users directly and easily.

Ways to Prevent Phishing Attacks

There are many ways by which one can avoid being a victim of these phishing attacks. Following are some tips which make you less of a target and will help you stay safe online −

Update Your Programs

Keep all your programs updated, as it will prevent phishing attacks. Also, updating will make it difficult for the attackers to reach you. So, keep your apps and browsers regularly updated.

In-Depth Research Before Clicking

Random emails and instant messages may contain links that are not trustworthy. It might seem genuine but that could be a trap you could fall for. Go through the site thoroughly before clicking on any such links.

Install Antivirus

Always install antivirus as it plays an important role. This tool will give you a closer check on the sites that you are visiting. It scans every file coming to our computer through the internet.

If the sites are not trustworthy, the tool generates an alert about them. Antivirus adds an additional layer of protection against phishing scams.

Beware of Pop-Ups

Be aware of pop-ups you visit, as visiting them may lead to some scams. You can block these pop-ups if provided by the website for your security.

Don’t Fall for Urgency

Take your time before taking any action online, and don't fall for any kind of urgency. Thoroughly check the name and address of the sender as it can trick you. Request for a personal piece of information from unfamiliar web pages and misleading links should not be entertained.

Restrict Personal Details to Strangers

Never provide your personal details and financial details to anyone asking over the Internet. Even if it is required and seems genuine you can visit their official website and get a helping hand from the customer care facility provided by them.

Change Passwords Regularly

Changing passwords regularly can be helpful and provide security to your privacy. Go for a personal check on each and every accounts of yours on a regular basis, so that you have every minute essential detail in your knowledge.

Beware of Public Wi-Fi Accesses

Free Wi-Fi access points also act as a phishing attack. Be aware of the common Wi-Fi access in airports, railways, hospitals, coffee shops, and other locations where Wi-Fi access is free of cost. Signing up at these places may leak your personal information.

Awareness of New Phishing Techniques

Be aware of the new phishing attack techniques. Get to know about it as early as possible, so that you could avoid falling into one. However, if you encounter something not genuine, report it immediately. Quick responses are always helpful.

Conclusion

Phishing is a common type of cyberattack that everyone should learn about in order to protect themselves. Lastly, try to have the most secure system for your browser and save yourself from being fooled by a phishing attack.