Cybercriminals are getting smarter, and phishing scams are one of their favourite tricks. Whether it’s a fake email, a dodgy text message, or a too-good-to-be-true social media offer, falling for one can mean stolen data, financial loss, or even identity theft. Here’s how to spot the scams and stay safe online.



1. Check the Sender – Looks Can Be Deceiving
Phishing emails often look like they’re from trusted companies—banks, delivery services, or even your employer. Always double-check the sender’s email address. If it looks slightly off (e.g., [email protected] instead of [email protected]), it’s likely a scam.

📌 Tip: Hover over links before clicking to see where they really lead.



2. Urgent Language = Red Flag
Scammers use panic tactics to rush you into acting before you think. If an email says “Your account will be locked in 24 hours!” or “You’ve won a prize—claim it now!”, take a step back. Legitimate companies don’t pressure you like this.

📌 Tip: If you’re unsure, contact the company directly using details from their official website.


3. Watch Out for Attachments and Links
Malicious attachments or links can install malware or steal your login credentials. If you receive an unexpected email with an attachment (especially a .zip, .exe, or .docm file), don’t open it.

📌 Tip: If you’re asked to log in via a link, go to the website directly instead of clicking.


4. Verify Before You Share Personal Info
No legitimate company will ask for your passwords, PINs, or full bank details via email or text. If you get such a request, it’s a scam.

📌 Tip: Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.


5. Be Cautious of Social Media Scams
Fake competitions, giveaway scams, and impersonation accounts are everywhere. If a celebrity or brand suddenly messages you about winning a prize, check their profile carefully—it might be a scammer pretending to be them.

📌 Tip: Look for verified badges on social media accounts before engaging.


6. Keep Your Software and Security Updated
Many scams rely on exploiting outdated software. In order to ensure you are doing what you can to avoid phishing scams and being exposed to online fraud, keep your devices and security software up to date so you can blocks these threats before they reach you.

📌 Tip: Turn on automatic updates for your operating system and apps.


7. Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, it probably is. Take a moment to think before you click, and if in doubt, ask someone you trust.

📌 Tip: Report suspicious emails to your IT team or the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) via [email protected].


8. Look for the Padlock When Making Payments
When shopping online or entering payment details, always check for the padlock icon in the address bar. This means the website has SSL encryption, keeping your data secure.
However, don’t rely on this alone—scammers can also set up fake sites with padlocks. Always ensure the URL starts with “https://” and double-check the website name for subtle typos (e.g., amazonn.com instead of amazon.com).

📌 Tip: If a website looks suspicious or asks for unusual payment methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency, it’s likely a scam.


Phishing scams are becoming more sophisticated, but by staying alert and following these steps, you can protect yourself and your business from online fraud. Think before you click, question urgency, and verify before sharing any details.

If you’re looking for extra protection, Astley Digital can help secure your business with cybersecurity solutions that keep threats out.