Cyber Smarts: Don’t Take the Bait! USF CU’s Puppets Share Tips to Spot Phishing Scams

Today, our not-so-typical USF Credit Union financial wellness series is back - and this time, our puppets are tackling something a little more serious:

How do you spot a phishing scam?

The puppets turn to Cole P., an expert Information Security Specialist at USF Credit Union, for some real-world advice on staying cyber smart.

Don’t Take the Bait

Phishing is one of the most common starting points for fraud. And it doesn’t always arrive in an email.

It can show up as a text message - known as smishing - or as a traditional phishing email designed to trick you into clicking a link, sharing information or giving someone access to your accounts.

The good news? There are some simple red flags to watch for.

Watch for urgency.

One of the biggest warning signs is a message that pressures you to act immediately.

“Your account will be closed.”

“Urgent action required.”

“Click now to verify your information.”

That sense of urgency is intentional. Scammers want you to react before you have time to stop and think.

Don’t assume perfect grammar means it’s legitimate.

In the past, spelling and grammatical mistakes could be a clue that a message was a scam. But that’s no longer a reliable test.

With artificial intelligence helping scammers create more convincing messages, phishing emails can look polished and professional.

So even if a message sounds perfectly legitimate, don’t let perfect grammar give you a false sense of security.

Verify the sender.

If a message appears to come from your bank, a company you do business with or someone you know, take a moment to verify it.

And be especially cautious if the message includes a link asking for your password, credentials, financial information or other personal information.

Instead of clicking, go directly to the company’s website or app using a method you already trust. If you’re still unsure, reach out and ask whether the message is legitimate.

When in Doubt, Double-Check

According to Cole, verification is one of the best ways to protect yourself.

“Scammers are counting on people being busy, distracted or moving too quickly to stop and investigate. They want their message to look just legitimate enough that you’ll click before thinking twice,” Cole says.

That’s why one simple habit can make a big difference:

Slow down. Verify. Then act.

A few extra seconds could help keep your information - and your money - out of the wrong hands.

Stay Cyber Smart

Our puppets may make cybersecurity a little more fun, but the message is serious:  Don’t take the bait.

When a message creates urgency, asks for sensitive information or includes a link you weren’t expecting, pause before you click.

Because when it comes to phishing, being a little skeptical can be a very smart thing.

And remember: Stay CYBER SMART!

For more financial wellness resources and tips to help protect your money and information, visit USF Credit Union online.