A phishing scam is when an attacker impersonates other companies to send fraudulent text or email messages to its consumers. For example, a customer supporter from Capella® sends you an email to offer special discounts on school supplies or virtual visits. Some consumers fall into a dangerous trap by clicking the hyperlink without looking carefully at the sender. If you compare it with a valid email address on the Capella® website, you will notice that the message was only a scam.

It's a tricky situation that has been affecting companies and its consumers for the past few decades. These companies may include your local bank, insurance or mortgage companies, online or physical retailers, social media platforms and thousands of more.

Phishing scams are designed to trick consumers into providing their personal information. This would allow an attacker to steal your identity or invade your existing accounts. However, there are a few ways to avoid these problems so you can remain safe and secured.

1.)  A legitimate company of any kind would never ask for personal information via email or text.

2.)  Always check the sender! Companies also don't use free email domains like yahoo, gmail, hotmail, or aol.

3.)  Watch for spelling mistakes in the email message and address. For example, an email message sent from promo@cappellapropertiesandfurniture.com may be a scam because our valid email address is spelled promo@capellapropertiesandfurniture.com.

4.)  If you feel suspicious about an email or text message, DO NOT click any links or hyperlinks.

Contact the legitimate company and ask them to clarify.

If you think you have been a victim of a phishing scam, contact your bank directly as soon as you can. You should also report it to the police through Action Fraud, to obtain a crime reference number.

For more information about phishing scams, contact us here.