3 Practical Tips to Avoid Phishing Emails

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Phishing emails are one of the most common security threats users face. They look real, they feel urgent, and they often trick people into giving away passwords or clicking harmful links. As an IT Support Specialist, part of your role is not just fixing problems but also helping users prevent them.

Why Phishing Matters

  • It’s common – Nearly every inbox sees phishing attempts.
  • It’s costly – One click can lead to data breaches or financial loss.
  • It’s preventable – With awareness and simple habits, users can protect themselves.

Tip 1: Inspect Before You Click

Hover over links to see where they really go. If the URL looks suspicious, misspelled, or doesn’t match the sender, don’t click it.

Tip 2: Verify the Sender

Phishing emails often look like they come from trusted sources (banks, coworkers, or popular services). Check the sender’s actual email address. If it looks unusual or slightly altered, treat it as suspicious.

Tip 3: Don’t Share Sensitive Info by Email

Legitimate organizations will never ask for your password, credit card number, or social security number by email. If you’re asked for this information, it’s almost always a scam.

Activity: Sample Phishing Email

Instructions

  1. Carefully read the sample phishing email provided in this section.
    Assume the message was received in your inbox.
  2. Identify at least three signs that indicate the email is suspicious.
    Examples include:
    • The sender’s email address or domain
    • The link destination
    • Urgent or threatening language
    • Generic greetings or unusual wording
  3. Explain why this email should not be trusted. Write a short explanation describing how the email differs from what a legitimate message from the same organization would normally look like.
  4. Describe the safest action to take. Explain what you would do instead of clicking the link (for example, ignoring the message, reporting it, or verifying the issue through an official website or IT department).

Deliverable

Submit a brief written response that:

  • Lists at least three phishing indicators
  • Explains your reasoning clearly
  • Demonstrates an understanding of safe email-handling practices

This activity focuses on recognition, reasoning, and communication—the same skills used by IT professionals when responding to potential security threats.

Reflection

  • How would you explain phishing in simple terms to a non-technical coworker?
  • What’s the most convincing phishing email you’ve ever seen?
  • Which of the three tips could you share in a quick workplace training session?

By practicing how to spot phishing attempts, you’re building one of the most important everyday security skills — protecting both yourself and your organization from preventable threats.

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