Have you ever received an email that appears to be from your bank saying there’s an issue with your account? It might ask you to confirm details like your password or Social Security number to “secure” your account. The email may also sound urgent, making it seem like something bad will happen if you don’t act quickly.
The truth is the email isn’t actually from your bank — it's from someone trying to steal your personal information for monetary gain or identify theft. This type of scam is called “phishing.”
Phishing can occur in several ways, including:
In today’s digital age, nearly everyone uses texting, email, and social media — making phishing scams hard to spot. Here are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk and keep your information safe.
If you receive an unexpected email, phone call, or text message, be careful. Look out for grammar, spelling errors, generic greetings like "Dear customer," or a sense of urgency prompting immediate action. Any attempt to extract personal information, such as the caller asking who they are speaking to, is a red flag. If it’s a phone call, avoid sharing details and hang up if you suspect a scam. To verify legitimacy, visit the company’s official website for contact information and reach out yourself.
Be wary of unexpected emails with links or attachments, even if they appear to be from a trusted source like your bank or a friend. Phishers often use these to gain access to your device and steal your personal information.
Instead of clicking directly on links, type the organization’s website into your browser or call them using a verified number from their website. This practice provides an extra layer of protection and verifies you are going to the intended website. If you do click on a link, always check the web address carefully before entering sensitive information, like your login credentials.
The next time you’re away on vacation and want to post a picture to your social media account, think twice. Not only does this inform potential scammers that your home may be unoccupied, but scammers can tailor phishing attempts based on the information you share. For example, if you post about traveling to a specific hotel or destination, they might send fake emails pretending to be from that hotel, asking for payment confirmation or additional details.
Sharing vacation details can also give scammers enough information to impersonate you online — turning the phishing onto your friends and family.
Remaining cautious and proactive is the key to protecting your personal information online. If you suspect you've been targeted, report it immediately to the relevant company or to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
As we age, staying connected through technology is an essential part of modern life, but it also comes with risks like phishing scams. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your personal information. Our Aging Well program is here to help, offering support with health care, technology, staying safe online, and more, so you can navigate the challenges of aging with confidence. With the right tools and knowledge, you can stay secure and continue enjoying the benefits of the digital world.