Phishing is an easy way for cybercriminals to steal your personal data or information, such as credit card numbers, account passwords and other details. Phishing presents itself in many forms, from emails to phone calls to text messages but it always works the same way; by attempting to lure you into performing a certain task with the appeal of something enticing for example, win a free iPad or bucket of cash.
In this case, you are usually encouraged to click on the button or download a file attachment, both of which contains phishing malware that installs itself on your device.
Tips to avoid:
- Think before you click!
It is fine to click on links when you’re on trusted website. However, if you are clicking on links that appear in random emails and instant messages then it’s definitely not a smart move! When in doubt, go directly to the source rather than clicking a potential dangerous link.
- Verify a site’s security
Never download files from suspicious emails or websites. Even search engines may show certain links which may lead users to a phishing webpage offering for example low-cost products. If the user makes purchases at such websites, the credit card details will be accessed by cybercriminals.
- Use Firewalls
High-quality firewalls act as buffers between you, your computer and outside intruders. You should use two different kinds: a desktop firewall and a network firewall.
If you receive legitimate-looking emails from big companies, please double check the email itself, social media account names and most importantly the site’s URL address. All official email and platforms would not have random numbers or text and will clearly be visible as fakes.
For ALAX ensure you are downloading ALAX directly from the website! Of course, if you encounter any questions along the way, please contact our tech support team at support@alax.io or speak with our team members live in our official Telegram group.
Stay tuned for our new series of articles every week!
