How to Avoid Email Scams & Stay Safe

Email and phishing scams are everywhere online. Even though they seem common, many people still fall for them. Cyber attackers create fake websites of big brands to steal personal information from unsuspecting users.

They often send these links via email with urgent messages, tricking people into sharing sensitive data. The good news is, with the right precautions, you can protect your personal and business information.

1. Know What an Email Scam Looks Like ​

The first step to staying safe is recognizing phishing emails:

• Hackers constantly use new tactics to trick people.
• Legit companies rarely ask for sensitive info via email.
• Educate yourself and employees regularly about scam trends.

Research shows that up to 90% of company cyber attacks start with phishing emails. Awareness is your first line of defense.

2. Always Think Twice Before Clicking ​

Suspicious links in emails are the main entry point for attackers:

• Never click on links without verifying the source.
• Instead, type the website address directly into your browser.
• Check the sender’s email address carefully - it may be slightly misspelled or look unusual.

A moment of caution can save you from a major security breach.

3. Install Firewalls ​

Firewalls are essential tools to protect your network:

• Block external attacks from emails and malicious links.
• Two main types: Network firewalls and Desktop firewalls.
• Combining both types gives you extra protection.

Think of firewalls as a shield between you and hackers.

4. Don’t Submit Info on Unsecured Sites ​

Never provide sensitive information to websites without checking for HTTPS:

• Look for a lock icon in the address bar.
• HTTP sites without HTTPS are unsafe for data submission.
• Security bodies recommend HTTPS for e-commerce and banking sites.

Always ensure websites are secure before sharing your personal details.

5. Learn the Common Phishing Language ​

Phishing emails often use urgent or alarming language:

• Subject lines like “Verify your account now” are red flags.
• Legit companies address you personally and rarely demand sensitive info via email.
• Avoid opening emails from spam folders.

Recognizing suspicious wording can prevent falling into traps.

6. Don’t Be Tempted by Pop-Ups ​

Pop-ups can carry malware and compromise your security:

• Educate yourself and employees about the risks.
• Use ad-blockers to minimize pop-ups.
• Never click on suspicious pop-ups, even if they seem harmless.

Pop-ups are designed to trick users - stay alert.

7. Rotate Passwords Regularly ​

Regularly updating passwords is critical:

• Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
• Change passwords frequently to prevent unauthorized access.
• Combine this with two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.

Even if a hacker gets an old password, your accounts remain safe.

8. Don’t Ignore Software Updates ​

Keeping security software updated is vital:

• Attackers constantly evolve their tactics.
• Updates patch vulnerabilities and improve protection.
• Install updates immediately to maintain a secure system.

Ignoring updates leaves gaps in your cyber defenses.

Wrapping Up ​

Email scams are not going away anytime soon. Falling victim can cost money, compromise your privacy, and damage your reputation.

To stay safe:

• Recognize phishing emails.
• Avoid clicking suspicious links.
• Use firewalls and secure connections.
• Rotate passwords and enable 2FA.
• Keep software updated and pop-ups blocked.

Following these 8 proven steps ensures you reduce the risk of cyber attacks and protect your personal and business information online.