A text message announcing a stuck package, an email from your "bank" demanding your information, an urgent message from the "government": online scams are everywhere and increasingly convincing. Knowing how to recognize a scam is now an essential skill, both at home and at work. Here are the telltale signs.
Quick answer: To recognize an email or text message scam, be wary of messages that create a sense of urgency, ask for your personal or banking information, contain spelling mistakes, or display a strange sender address. If in doubt, do not click on any links and contact the organization directly through its official website.
What is phishing?
Phishing scamwhere a fraudster impersonates a trusted company or individual to steal your information: passwords, card numbers, identity. Learning to recognize this type of scam protects you and your loved ones.
1. A sense of urgency or a threat
“Your account will be closed in 24 hours,” “Payment declined, act now”: fraudsters play on fear to make you act quickly, without thinking. A legitimate organization would never put you under such pressure via message.
2. A request for personal information
No bank, government, or reputable service will ever ask for your password, PIN, or full card number via email or text message. Any such request is almost always a scam.
3. A suspicious sender address
Look at the sender's full address, not just the displayed name. A strange address, with numbers or a domain that has nothing to do with the organization, is a red flag. On a phone, long-press the name to see the actual address.
4. Questionable links
Never click on a link without checking where it leads. On a computer, hover your mouse over the link (without clicking) to see the actual address at the bottom of the screen. If it doesn't match the official website, it's a scam.
5. Mistakes and an impersonal tone
Many scams contain spelling mistakes, awkward translations, or vague phrases like "Dear Customer" instead of your name. Be aware, however, that scams are becoming more sophisticated, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence, so the absence of errors is no guarantee.
6. An offer too good to be true
Winning a lottery you've never entered, an unexpected refund, a free gift: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. These scams are designed to get you to click or pay "fees.".
What should you do if you receive a suspicious message?
- Do not click on any links or open any attachments.
- Do not respond and do not provide any information.
- Check through another channel: contact the organization via its website or official phone number.
- Report and delete the message. In Canada, you can report it to the Anti-Fraud Centre.
What if you've already clicked?
Don't panic. Immediately change the password for the affected account, enable two-factor authentication, monitor your bank statements, and notify your bank. If it's a work device, inform your IT team without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are text message scams common?
Yes, they're exploding. Fake package delivery messages and scams from fake financial institutions are among the most common. The same warning signs apply as with emails.
How can I protect my parents or my employees?
Awareness is the best defense. Explaining the signs, providing regular reminders, and, in the workplace, offering brief training greatly reduce the risk of being tricked.
Protect yourself, at home and at work
We help individuals and businesses in Quebec protect themselves against fraud and phishing. Contact OKTO Solutions or discover our services.