Security Topic: Reporting Suspicious Emails
Phishing emails continue to be one of the most common ways cybercriminals attempt to steal personal information, gain access to accounts or convince someone to send money. These messages are designed to look legitimate and may appear to come from a financial institution, business, coworker or even someone you know.
Recognizing a suspicious email is important, but knowing how to properly report it can help protect both you and others from the same threat.
Recognizing a Suspicious Email
Phishing attempts are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but there are still warning signs that should make you take a closer look:
- An unexpected request to send money, purchase gift cards or provide sensitive information
- A message creating an unusual sense of urgency or pressure
- A sender name that looks familiar but uses an unfamiliar or slightly altered email address
- Links or attachments you were not expecting
- Requests to verify passwords, account numbers or login credentials
- Changes to previously established payment or wire instructions
Even when an email appears to come from someone you trust, treat an unexpected or unusual request with caution.
What to Do When Something Looks Suspicious
If you receive an email that does not look right, avoid clicking links, opening attachments or replying to the sender. Instead, use your email provider’s built-in Report Phishing or Report Spam feature when available. Reporting the message helps email providers identify malicious senders and may prevent similar messages from reaching others.
If the email appears to come from a person or organization you know, independently verify the request. Call the individual using a phone number you already have or navigate directly to the organization’s official website rather than using the contact information or links included in the email.
If a suspicious message appears to come from Waverly Advisors or requests action involving your financial accounts, contact your advisor directly using contact information you know to be accurate before taking any action.
Why Reporting Matters
Deleting a suspicious email removes it from your inbox, but reporting it can provide valuable information that helps identify broader phishing campaigns. These reports can help email providers and organizations recognize patterns, block malicious senders and protect other potential targets.
Reporting is particularly important when an email impersonates a trusted organization or involves financial information. The sooner a suspicious message is identified, the sooner steps can be taken to reduce the potential impact.
Stay Vigilant Before You Click
Cybercriminals often rely on urgency and familiarity to encourage quick decisions. Taking a few extra moments to examine an unexpected email, independently verify unusual requests and report suspicious messages can provide an important layer of protection.
At Waverly Advisors, protecting our clients’ personal and financial information remains a priority. Staying aware of phishing attempts and reporting suspicious communications can help all of us maintain a more secure digital environment.
