Email scams account for 96% of all phishing attacks, making email the most popular tool for the bad guys. Often the scammer will disguise the email to look and sound like it's from your bank. Check out these red flags that show up in scams.
Email Scams
Unusual Email Address Slow it down. Does that look like an email address your bank would use? Be wary of unexpected emails from addresses that aren’t like the ones your bank typically employs.
Misspelled Words Spot check! If you see misspelled words or odd grammar, they are all clear signs of an impersonator. Real banks use spell check.
Scare Tactics Don’t panic. If an email uses scare tactics, such as urgent warnings of account closure or security breaches, you can safely assume it’s a scam.
Suspicious URLs Hold up — banks will never ask you to log in via email. Phishing emails use deceptive URLs to take you to malicious websites. Never click links that you weren’t expecting.
Unexpected Attachments Something’s phishy, because real banks will never send an email attachment — especially when you didn’t ask for it. Attachments can contain malware that can compromise your computer or personal information. Never click on attachments from emails supposedly from your bank.
What to do if you fall for an email scam:
Change your password if you clicked on a link and entered any personal information like your username and password into a fake site.
Contact your bank by calling the number on the back of your card.
If you lost money, file a police report.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).
Blog content provided by the American Banker's Association and www.banksneveraskthat.com.