Types of Phishing Fraud
Phishing is a type of cybercrime. In a phishing scam, victims are contacted by email, telephone or text message by someone posing as an employee of a legitimate institution such as a bank or your insurance company or as someone known to you.
The objective is to get people to reveal sensitive data such as their account numbers, home address, banking/credit card details and usernames/passwords. The information is then used to access important accounts and can result in identity theft and financial loss.
1
Email Phishing
Attackers send fraudulent emails that appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks, social media platforms, or government agencies. These emails typically contain links that lead to fake websites, where victims are asked to enter their confidential information.
2
Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Attackers make phone calls posing as legitimate entities, such as banks or tech support, and try to manipulate victims into providing sensitive information over the phone.
3
Smishing (SMS Phishing)
Attackers send fraudulent text messages, often containing urgent requests or warnings, and provide links or phone numbers for victims to respond or provide information.
4
Social Media Phishing
Attackers create fake social media profiles or posts that contain links to malicious websites or ask for personal information.
5
Credential Harvesting
Attackers set up fake login pages or forms that appear legitimate, tricking victims into entering their usernames and passwords.
To protect yourself from phishing scams, it’s important to be cautious when clicking on links, providing personal information, or responding to unsolicited requests. Always verify the authenticity of requests through official channels before taking any action.