Different Types of Email Phishing Scams

Phishing needs no introduction. Tricking millions of internet users into giving up their sensitive information, phishing scams are one of the topmost cyber threats lurking out in the cyberspace. As per stats, email attachments are the no.1 delivery vehicle used by attackers for malware. And it is not shocking to see that 30% of phishing emails get opened.

The need of the hour is to have a careful eye before replying to an email message. Let’s take a look at few different types of phishing emails that are sent by attackers and how you can easily spot them.

Employment

Freshers and job seekers are the number one target of employment phishing emails. Luring the target by offering huge salaries without many constraints, attackers make the target share their personal details.

First of all, check the company’s name on the internet and look for its official website. Make sure you evaluate how much salary is being offered in terms of experience demanded. If the message says “direct entry, no interview” then it’s a clear sign of a phishing email. You can also contact them to confirm the open vacancies.

Dating

Online dating looks attractive but it can cost you more than a fortune. Scammers craft emails that lure the targets to get in touch with the love of their life and ultimately makes them click or download malware on their system.

The best way to avoid getting trapped is to always use a reliable dating service as there are fewer chances of encountering with frauds.

Donation

Names of the famous personalities are used in these type of scams. A huge amount of donation is offered to the target as the sender of the email poses to be in some trouble and want to give away all his money to a trustworthy individual.

Full Mailbox

This is another common category of phishing emails. Such emails ask the receiver to upgrade their mailbox as it has exceeded its quota limit. A link is provided for upgradation which basically is a malicious URL that redirects the user to a phishing website or automatically downloads malware on the system.

Business Proposals

These messages try to convince the target of a ‘risk-free’ business proposal. It’s a way to gain the trust of the receiver and initiate further conversation, which ultimately aims at stealing sensitive information of the target.

Invoice

An invoice in the form of an attachment is sent in these type of phishing emails. The receiver is asked to check the invoice for his purchase. However, there are no details provided about the purchase order. The attachment is basically a malicious software, which when clicked downloads malware on to the system.

How to Avoid getting trapped into phishing emails? Stay alert when browsing the internet and make sure you have an Anti-phishing software installed on your computer and mobile.