I’m a security expert – four subtle clues that reveal you’re the target of a scam and how to spot them

There are dozens of signs that you’re being targeted by cybercriminals – but some are harder to spot.

Scams are often sent via email, and there are some important “red flags” you need to be aware of.

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Cyber ​​experts from Keeper Security have uncovered some signs that you have received a dangerous phishing email.

These scams can occur even if you use a trusted email app like Gmail or Microsoft Outlook.

“Halloween season is here, which of course means carving pumpkins, trick-or-treating, planning costumes, snagging candy and scary movies for the kids,” the expert explained.

“However, one of the scariest threats to individuals and businesses during this scary time of year is phishing scams.”

“Similar to how costumed children come to the door on Halloween to ask for candy, cybercriminals dress up to trick people into giving up information like usernames and passwords, Social Security numbers, and more.”

Email Phishing Sign #1 – Email Address Oddities

A subtle sign that something is wrong is if you notice an error in an email address or domain name.

Scammers often use email addresses that are very similar to real email addresses to trick you.

This may be a very small change that you may not notice unless you look closely.

“The email or web address may have a slight difference, e.g. “For example, an o is replaced by a 0 or .com is replaced by .net,” explained Keeper Security.

This is the greatest possible guarantee that you will be targeted by a scammer.

Email Phishing Sign #2 – Urgent!

Another sign that you are being targeted by a scammer is if an email you receive is full of urgent language.

They will try to give you short deadlines and pressure you into making a bad decision.

“Phishing attempts often contain language that conveys a sense of urgency,” explained Keeper Security cyber expert.

“This is because the cybercriminal wants the attacked victim to act as quickly as possible so that they have no doubts when submitting their personal data.”

Email Phishing Sign #3 – Asking Too Much

Third, you should pay attention to requests for personal information.

If an unsolicited email asks for sensitive personal information, that’s a big red flag.

It’s unlikely that a real company would send such a message – especially if the email asks for something strange like your password.

“Sudden requests for personal information are also a common indicator of phishing attempts,” said the cyber expert.

“If you receive an email, text or call from an unknown number claiming to be a company or person you know, think twice before giving out your personal information.

“Especially if you weren’t the one who initiated the conversation.”

Email Phishing Sign #4 – Typo

Finally, check if an email you received contains any typos or errors.

It is very unusual for a reputable company to send an email with an error, let alone for an email to be riddled with errors.

If you notice strange language, incorrect grammar, or incorrect punctuation, you might be the one Goal a phishing attack.

“Before companies send emails to customers, they go through several rounds of verification to ensure there are no errors,” said the Keeper Security expert.

“If you receive an email claiming to be a company or individual and you notice errors, it is best not to click on anything in the email as it could be a phishing attempt. “