Phishing scams are sneaky attempts hackers use to steal your personal info by pretending to be someone you trust. Whether it’s an email, text, or social media message, these scams try to trick you into clicking bad links or giving away your login details. Knowing what to watch for can save you from big trouble like identity theft or losing money.
One red flag? Emails or messages that create a sense of urgency, like ‘Your account will close!’ or ‘Claim your prize now!’ Scammers count on panic to make you act fast without thinking. Also, watch out for misspellings and weird sender addresses. If the message looks odd or too good to be true, it probably is.
Never click on suspicious links or attachments from unknown senders. Instead, go directly to the company’s official website or call their support if you’re unsure. Use strong, unique passwords for each site and turn on two-factor authentication to add a safety net. Keep your software and security apps updated to block known phishing attempts.
Think twice before sharing personal info online. Even if the message looks legit, double-check by contacting the company or person through a trusted method. If you ever feel doubtful, it's better to delete the message and report it to your email provider or security team.
If you realize you’ve given away private info, act fast. Change your passwords immediately and notify your bank or service provider. Monitor your accounts for strange activity and alert the authorities if needed. Remember, being quick can limit the damage and help stop scammers from doing more harm.
Phishing scams constantly evolve, but by staying informed and cautious, you can keep your info safe. Don’t let scammers win—learn the signs and protect yourself every time you go online.
Standard Bank has reassured customers there has been no security breach, attributing suspicions of unauthorized account activity to phishing scams. Customers are encouraged to remain vigilant, regularly check their accounts, and report any irregularities. The South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC) also warns of rising phishing scams.
