Throughout October, we’re sharing a variety of tips for staying cyber-safe. Starting with a reminder that phishing is a trick, not a treat. Criminals use phishing to try and fool you into thinking they are a trusted person or organization, like your bank or someone in a Vail Resorts leadership role. They may send you an email or call you and ask for personal information such as your password or credit card number. Here are some additional phishing clues to look out for:
- Unexpected mail/phone call: Even if coming from what appears to be a “trusted person,” the attack emails and calls are generally not expected.
- Generic greetings: Attack emails/calls are often sent in mass. If you are being addressed in a generic way, this could be a giveaway.
- Malicious hyperlinks: Common attacks try to get the victim to click a hyperlink where the text displayed seems safe, but the underlying link is malicious. When in doubt, hover over the hyperlink and inspect the URL closely.
- Call to action: Attacks will try to get you to take an action such as clicking a link or opening a file. Be wary if you are being instructed to take action.
- Sense of urgency: Attackers are trying to get you to act without thinking. If you feel pressured to act quickly, stop and consider the above.
Remember, report suspected phishing through Outlook’s “Phishing” under the “Report Junk” menu (mobile app), “Report phishing” menu (browser) or “PhishAlarm” button (desktop application).