🎣 How to Spot Phishing: A Step-by-Step Guide

🧠 What Is Phishing, Really?

Phishing is one of the sneakiest cyber tricks out there — scammers pretend to be legit companies to steal your info 😤. Think: fake emails, sketchy links, and bogus login pages. Learning how to spot phishing is key to keeping your data safe and your stress levels low.

👉 Want to boost your overall security game? Check out Essential Tools to Keep You Safe Online

🚩 Red Flags: How to Spot Phishing Like a Pro

Here’s what to look out for when something feels... off:

📧 Weird Email Addresses 

Phishers love to mimic real companies — but they usually mess up the email address. Look for extra characters, misspellings, or random domains.

👋 Generic Greetings

“Dear Customer”? Nah. Real companies usually know your name. If it feels impersonal, it might be a scam.

👉 For more email safety tips, visit Securing Your Passwords

😱 Scare Tactics & Urgency

Phishing emails often try to freak you out:

• “Your account will be suspended!”
• “Immediate action required!”
  
  Take a breath. Don’t click anything. Always verify through official channels.

🔗 Links & Attachments: Proceed with Caution

🖱️ Hover Before You Click

Hover your mouse over any link to see where it really goes. If it looks shady or doesn’t match the sender’s site, don’t click!

📎 Suspicious Attachments

Attachments can be loaded with malware. If you weren’t expecting it — even from someone you know — double-check before opening.

👉 Learn more about malware risks in Understanding Online Scams

🔍 Verify the Source

Got a sketchy email? Don’t reply — go straight to the company’s official website or contact them directly. Never trust the contact info in the email itself.

📢 Reporting Phishing Attempts

If you think you’ve spotted a phishing scam, report it! Most companies have a way to flag suspicious messages, and you can also report to national cybercrime centres.

👉 Need help reporting? Visit How to Report Online Scams

🛡️ Final Thoughts: Stay Sharp, Stay Safe

Phishing is everywhere — but now you know how to spot phishing like a cybersecurity ninja 🥷. Stay alert, trust your gut, and always verify before you click.

Want more tips to level up your digital safety?

👉 Explore our full blog at KellsSecurity.com/blog