This is a Fast-Air Tech Talk security notice. The Tech Talk security notice is a free service for all Fast-Air customers. Please suggest security notice topics.

Phishing scams are a serious security and privacy threat to all online computer users. Phishing is the term used to describe how malicious people attempt to trick computer users into revealing sensitive information. Phishing scams succeed through social engineering and a willingness to trust others.

One popular method is luring people with the illusion of free gifts. The attempt might be by email or text message. Many people fall for the trick because of a desire to receive something for nothing.

Some legitimate online retailers might offer free gifts as promotional events. Malicious scammers are only interested in obtaining sensitive information. There are no free gifts. Not falling for the trick is straightforward — treat all offers of free gifts as suspicious. Period.

A description of phishing:

Phishing

A description of social engineering:

Social Engineering

For more information about avoiding phishing scams:

How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams

Phishers Are Upping Their Game. So Should You

• Author
• Recent Posts

Backwoods Geek

Backwoods Geek wrote his first computer program in 1977. He started using desktop computers in 1982 to write training and job aids. These days his home includes routers, switches, computers, a home theater PC, a laptop, and bluetooth phones. His professional career includes instrumentation and controls, computers, industrial training, technical writing, and teaching computer classes. Pastimes include sitting on the front porch, observing wildlife, cutting firewood, reading, watching movies, and tinkering with computers. He is uncomfortable around morning people until afternoon, likes dry and off-the-wall humor, and usually tells jokes with a straight face. He is a believer in the old adage that, "No matter where you go, there you are."

Latest posts by Backwoods Geek (see all)

• Free Gift Phishing Scams (Notice 2020-001) - January 15, 2020
• Tech Support Phone Scam (Notice 2019-001) - March 14, 2019
• VPNFilter Router Malware (Notice 2018-007) - May 30, 2018