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In this guide, you will learn:

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a cyber-attack where malicious actors pretend to be legitimate organizations or individuals targeting people of all ages into revealing sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers. These fraudsters often use email, social media, or messaging apps to send deceptive messages to unsuspecting victims.

How to Spot a Phishing Attempt

Protecting yourself starts with recognizing phishing attempts. Here's what to watch out for:

  • Be cautious of unsolicited messages asking for personal information or urging you to click on links or attachments.
  • Stay alert when you encounter messages creating a sense of urgency or trying to instill fear, like threats of account suspension or legal action.
  • Pay attention to messages with spelling or grammar errors or those using generic greetings.
  • Always check the sender's email address or social media profile to ensure it matches the claimed organization or individual.
  • Before clicking any links, hover over them to see where they lead. If it seems suspicious or unfamiliar, refrain from clicking.

What Happens When You Fall for a Phishing Scam

If you happen to respond to a phishing message or click on a fraudulent link or attachment, you're putting yourself at risk. Phishing attacks can lead to identity theft, financial losses, and malware infections on your device. It's crucial to understand that engaging with the attacker can worsen the situation.

Instead, take these steps:

  • Report the incident to the organization or individual the attacker impersonated.
  • Seek assistance from a trusted source, such as a cybersecurity expert or law enforcement.

How to Avoid Falling Victim to Phishing

Protecting yourself is easier than you might think. Follow these tips:

  • Educate yourself on common phishing attempts and stay informed about the latest threats.
  • Exercise caution with suspicious messages or requests. Don't click on links or download software from unknown sources.
  • Refrain from sharing sensitive information unless you're certain of the recipient's identity and the reason they need it.
  • Create unique passwords for your accounts with Trend Micro Password Generator.
  • Set up Two-Factor Authentication for your online accounts.
  • Shield your email from scams with trusted Antivirus software like Trend Micro Maximum Security.
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If You've Been a Victim of Phishing...

Don't panic; take action:

  • Change your passwords immediately, and monitor your accounts and credit reports for any signs of unauthorized activity.
  • Report the incident to the organization or individual that the phishing message impersonated.
  • Collect any evidence, such as emails or text messages, and keep a record of the dates and times of the attack.
  • Seek support from a trusted friend or counselor to help you deal with the emotional impact of the incident.

Avoid Phishing with Trend Micro

Trend Micro offers comprehensive protection against scams and social engineering attacks. Whether you're already a Trend Micro user or considering it, here's how to enhance your security:

Use Trend Micro ID Protection

Stay clear with phishing websites with Trend Micro ID Protection. Before you visit a website, Trend Micro ID Protection looks at it and warns you if it seems suspicious or dangerous. It's like having someone check the safety of a road before you drive on it. Here's how to do it:

  • Install It: To get this protection, you need to add it to your web browser.
  • Stay Safe: Once it's installed, if you accidentally try to visit a phishing website, Trend Micro ID Protection will stop you, just like a traffic light stops you from going when it's not safe.
  • Check Ratings: You can also click on the Trend Micro icon in your browser to see how safe a website is. It's like looking at a restaurant's rating before you decide to eat there.
  • Floating Icon: There's a little icon that sits in the corner of your screen. It gives you quick info about the website you're on, like a small helper that keeps you informed.

    Sample Web Page Rating in Trend Micro ID Protection

For Current Trend Micro Users

Enable the best Trend Micro settings to shield yourself from phishing and other online scams. Follow these guides:

If You're Not Yet a Trend Micro User

Install Trend Micro Maximum Security to guard against malware, fraud, phishing, email hacking, and other targeted attacks on your PC and online accounts. Get the same level of protection for your mobile devices with Trend Micro Mobile Security for Android and Trend Micro Mobile Security for iOS.

In a world filled with digital threats, knowledge is your best defense. Stay safe online, and let Trend Micro empower you to enjoy the internet worry-free.

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