Why this matters
Phishing happens when a scammer pretends to be your bank, a delivery service, a tax agency, or even a coworker, to trick you into clicking a link or sharing information. These messages arrive by text, email, social DMs, and phone. A 10-second pause can save you hours of cleanup.
The 7-point “don’t-get-hooked” checklist
- Inspect the sender. Look for tiny typos and look-alike domains, for example paypaI.com with a capital “i.”
- Preview the link. Hover on desktop or long-press on mobile to see the full URL before you tap. If it looks odd or shortened, skip it.
- Watch for pressure. “Account locked,” “pay now,” or “final notice” are classic scare tactics.
- Avoid surprise attachments. Unexpected invoices or voicemail ZIP files are common malware tricks.
- Verify outside the message. If it claims to be your bank or courier, open the official app or type the website address yourself, do not use the link in the message.
- Turn on MFA, multi-factor authentication. A one-time code can block many account takeovers, even if a password leaks.
- Report and delete. Report phishing to the appropriate agency or your provider, then remove it from your inbox.
If you already clicked
- Disconnect from Wi-Fi, or power down if necessary.
- Change passwords starting with email and banking, then enable MFA.
- Run a full antivirus scan on the device.
- Call your bank if you entered financial details, and monitor statements.
- Notify your workplace IT if it is a work device.
Local note for Hamilton and area
Recent lures include “failed delivery,” “tax or refund,” and “account verification” texts. Treat any unexpected payment or refund link as suspicious, and verify inside the official app or website instead.
Share this with family
A quick run-through of these seven checks dramatically lowers risk for kids, seniors, and anyone who helps with shared accounts.
WHAT’S YOUR HOME WORTH?
Find out what your home may sell for in today’s market. Are you thinking of selling your home or interested in learning what a neighbor’s house is selling for? We can help you see what it’s worth.
