Avoid being a victim of phishing

OFTEN our inbox is flooded with mails sent by cyber criminals who forward bogus emails, which is bound to infect your electronic devices with a virus. This action is known as phishing, but what does it mean? Cyber-criminals create emails and pop-ups that tempt you to open it because it seems safe. They use strategic words and this makes it more difficult to determined the bogus emails from the legitimate ones. When you click on the links, you put your computer or phone at a risk of becoming infected with a virus.

Research has proven that by noticing the ‘pick up’ lines  which are normally in the subject line of the mail, you could prevent becoming a victim of online fraud and phishing attacks, where money is involved.

Here is a list of common pick up lines:

– We suspect an unauthorised transaction on your account. To ensure that your account is not compromised, please click the link below and confirm your identity.

– During our regular verification of accounts, we couldn’t verify your information. Please click here to update and verify your information.

-Our records indicate that your account was overcharged. You must call us within  seven days to receive your refund.

-Your computer is infected, please change your password.

-Your account has been hacked, fill out this form and we’ll take care of you

-Your personal information has been leaked to the internet — click this link to fix the problem

-Pending lawsuit against you. Urgent action required.

-Congratulations, you’ve won an XBOX (holiday, plasma TV)

-Your password will expire soon

-Your account has been terminated

-Your inheritance is waiting for you

Tips courtesy of:  Phishield