Cybersecurity is a team effort. If you’ve recently spotted a suspicious email in your inbox, you aren’t alone. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using convincing branding and urgent language to trick people into handing over personal details or financial information.
Here is what you need to know to stay safe and how to help the authorities fight back.
How to Spot a Phishing Attempt
Phishing emails often masquerade as legitimate organisations like HMRC, Royal Mail, your bank, or even popular streaming services. Look out for these common red flags:
The "Urgent" Tone: Emails that threaten to close your account or fine you if you do not act immediately.
Suspicious Sender Addresses: Check the actual email address, not just the "Friendly Name". If it’s a string of random characters or a personal account (like @hotmail.com or @gmail.com) claiming to be an official service, it’s a scam.
Generic Greetings: Phrases like "Dear Customer" instead of your actual name.
Dodgy Links: Hover your mouse over any links (without clicking!) to see the actual web address they lead to.
What to Do if You Receive One
Do Not Click: Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments, as these can install malware or lead to fraudulent websites.
Report It: Forward any suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. This goes to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which can take down malicious sites.
Delete and Block: Once reported, delete the email from your inbox and your "Deleted Items" folder.
Better Safe Than Sorry
If you are ever unsure, the safest route is to log in directly through an official app or website by typing the address into your browser yourself. Never use the links provided in a suspicious message.
Received a suspicious text? You can also report "smishing" by forwarding the message to 7726 (which spells 'SPAM' on most keypads). It is free of charge and alerts your mobile provider.
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