Protecting Yourself and Your Data Against Cyber-attacks

WHAT IS PHISHING?

Phishing scams are one of the most common types of cyber-attacks today. They occur when a malicious actor sends an email or other electronic message that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank, social media site, or online retailer. The message often contains a link to a fake website designed to trick the victim into entering sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data.
These attacks are a serious threat to individuals and businesses alike, as they can lead to identity theft, financial losses, and other damaging consequences. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect yourself from phishing scams and other similar cyber-attacks.

HOW CAN YOU IDENTIFY A PHISHING EMAIL?

The first step in avoiding phishing scams is to be aware of the warning signs. These include emails or messages that:

  1. Ask you to provide sensitive information, such as passwords, Social Security numbers, or credit card information.

  1. Use urgent or threatening language to pressure you into taking immediate action.

  1. Contain typos or other errors that suggest the message is not legitimate.

  1. Appear to be from a familiar source but contain unexpected or unusual content.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU RECEIVE A PHISHING EMAIL?

If you receive a message that raises any of these red flags, it's important to proceed with caution. Never click on any links or download any attachments without first verifying that the message is legitimate. This can be done by contacting the supposed sender directly, using a phone number or email address that you know to be valid.

HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF FROM PHISHING PROACTIVELY?

Another important step in protecting yourself from phishing scams is to keep your software up to date. This includes your operating system, web browser, and any other software applications you use on a regular basis. Updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities, which can help to prevent cyber-attacks.

In addition, using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible is a good idea. This can help protect your online accounts from unauthorized access, even if a cybercriminal obtains your login credentials through a phishing scam.

Finally, it's important to use common sense and trust your instincts when it comes to online security. It probably is if something seems suspicious or too good to be true. By staying alert and taking steps to protect your sensitive information, you can help to prevent phishing scams and other similar cyber-attacks from affecting you.

HOW DO YOU REPORT PHISHING ACTIVITY?

In case you have fallen victim to an email scam or have discovered one, it is crucial to report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. If you have already revealed your bank or credit/debit card information or received any payments in your account, contact your bank or card issuer immediately to prevent further transactions and seek guidance on the next steps. It is also advisable to file a report with your local police department.

If scammers have mentioned Prime 8 in their communication or if you have any concerns regarding an unsolicited email, avoid replying to the sender. Instead, forward the email to

  • operations@prime8consulting.com, and write "SUSPICIOUS EMAIL" in the subject line.
    Apart from Prime 8, you can also contact the following agencies:

  • Federal Trade Commission: Fill out a fraud report.

  • United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (USCERT): Email them at phishing-report@us-cert.gov.

  • FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center: File a complaint on their website.

  • econsumer.gov: If the fraud seems to have originated outside the United States, report it on their website.

  • State and Local Authorities: Find out how to report fraud to your state and local consumer agencies on their website.

    Other entities that you can contact include the email provider that sent the message, such as Yahoo, Gmail, Outlook, Verizon, AOL, iCloud, and Comcast. You can also reach out to the Anti-Phishing Working Group, a global coalition that unites the response to cybercrime across various sectors, including ISPs, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies, by emailing www.reportphishing@apwg.org. Finally, keep an eye on your credit report for any suspicious activity by using TransUnion, Equifax, or Experian.