Technology
How to Spot a Phishing Email: 7 Warning Signs
Scam emails are getting more convincing. These checks take seconds and catch most of them.
Phishing emails try to trick you into clicking a link, opening an attachment or sharing a password or payment details. They often look like they come from a bank, a delivery company, a streaming service or even your employer. Here is what to look for.
1. The sender address does not match
The display name might say a well-known company, but the actual email address is a random or misspelled domain. Tap or hover on the name to see the real address.
2. It creates urgency
“Your account will be closed in 24 hours” or “Payment failed, act now” are classic pressure tactics designed to make you act before you think.
3. Links go somewhere unexpected
On a computer, hover over a link to preview where it goes. On a phone, press and hold. If the address is not the company’s real website, do not click.
4. It asks for sensitive information
Legitimate companies very rarely ask you to confirm a password, PIN or full card number by email.
5. Unexpected attachments
Be cautious with attachments you were not expecting, especially invoices, zip files or documents asking you to “enable content.”
6. A generic greeting
“Dear customer” from a company that normally uses your name is a small but useful clue.
7. Something just feels off
Odd formatting, a blurry logo or a request that does not make sense are all worth trusting your instinct on.
The safest habit: if an email worries you, do not use its links. Open a new browser tab, go to the company’s website or app yourself, and log in from there. Turning on two-factor authentication for your important accounts adds another layer of protection.
This article is for general information only and is not professional advice. How we work.