Don't open suspicious emails or attachments

Image credit: via microsoft designer

Phishing emails are a common way for hackers to steal your personal information. These emails are designed to look like they are from a legitimate source, such as your bank or credit card company. They may contain a link or attachment that, if clicked, will install malware on your computer.

To protect yourself from phishing emails, you should:

  • Be suspicious of any email that asks for your personal information, such as your password, credit card number, or Social Security number.
  • Don't open emails from senders you don't know or trust.
  • Don't click on links in emails unless you are sure they are legitimate.
  • Scan emails for viruses and malware before opening them.
  • Use a spam filter to block unwanted emails.

If you do open a suspicious email, it is important to:

  • Don't click on any links in the email.
  • Don't open any attachments in the email.
  • Delete the email immediately.

If you think you may have clicked on a link or opened an attachment in a phishing email, you should:

  • Change your passwords for your email account, bank account, and other online accounts.
  • Scan your computer for viruses and malware.
  • Report the phishing email to the sender and to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from phishing emails and other scams.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about phishing emails:

  • Phishing emails are often poorly written and may contain grammatical errors.
  • Phishing emails may also use scare tactics, such as threatening to close your account if you don't click on a link or open an attachment.
  • Phishing emails may also use the names of legitimate companies, but the email addresses will often be different.

If you are ever unsure about an email, it is always best to err on the side of caution and not open it. By being careful about the emails you open, you can help to protect your personal information from hackers.

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