THEA’s September Cybersecurity Tip: Beware of Phishing Scams During Back-to-School Season

As we enter September, the back-to-school season is in full swing. Unfortunately, cybercriminals often take advantage of this time by increasing phishing attacks. Phishing is when attackers try to trick you into revealing personal information, such as passwords or financial details, by pretending to be someone you trust.
How to Protect Yourself:
  • Check the Sender’s Email Address: Before clicking on any link or downloading an attachment, make sure the email is from a legitimate source. Phishing emails often come from addresses that look similar to legitimate ones but may have slight misspellings or extra characters.
  • Look for Red Flags: Be cautious of emails that create a sense of urgency, such as “Your account will be locked!” or “Immediate action required!” These are common tactics used by scammers.
  • Verify Links Before Clicking: Hover over any links in the email to see where they actually lead. If the URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match the sender’s supposed website, don’t click on it.
  • Don’t Share Personal Information: Legitimate companies will never ask you for sensitive information like passwords or Social Security numbers via email. If you’re unsure, contact the company directly using a known phone number or website.
  • Report Suspicious Emails: If you receive an email that looks like a phishing attempt, report it to your IT department immediately. They can help determine if it’s a scam and protect others in the company from falling victim.
Stay Safe and Informed: By staying vigilant and following these simple steps, you can protect yourself and our company from phishing scams this September.