5 Common Email Scams and How to Avoid Them

Email scams continue to be one of the most prevalent forms of cybercrime. Despite advances in security technology, scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to trick unsuspecting users. Here are five common email scams you should be aware of and tips to avoid falling victim to them.

Phishing Attacks

What they are: Phishing emails impersonate legitimate companies or services to trick you into revealing sensitive information like passwords or credit card details.

How to spot them:

• Check the sender's email address carefully for misspellings or unusual domains
• Look for generic greetings like "Dear Customer" instead of your name
• Hover over links before clicking to verify their destination
• Be wary of urgent requests demanding immediate action

Protection tip: Never click on links in suspicious emails. Instead, manually navigate to the company's official website.

Business Email Compromise (BEC)

What they are: These sophisticated attacks target businesses, often impersonating executives to request wire transfers or sensitive information.

How to spot them:

• Unusual requests from senior management, especially regarding money transfers
• Slight variations in email addresses (e.g., [email protected] instead of [email protected])
• Requests that bypass normal procedures or demand secrecy

Protection tip: Establish verification protocols for financial requests, such as confirming by phone before processing.

Malware Distribution

What they are: Emails containing malicious attachments that, when opened, install malware on your device.

How to spot them:

• Unexpected attachments, especially executable files (.exe, .zip, .scr)
• Vague messages urging you to open the attachment
• Poor grammar and spelling

Protection tip: Never open attachments from unknown senders, and use antivirus software that scans attachments before opening.

Gift Card Scams

What they are: Scammers impersonate someone you know (often a boss or colleague) asking you to purchase gift cards and send them the redemption codes.

How to spot them:

• Requests to purchase gift cards urgently
• Messages claiming they're in meetings and can't talk by phone
• Pressure to keep the request confidential

Protection tip: Always verify such requests through another communication channel before taking action.

Fake Invoice Scams

What they are: Emails containing fake invoices hoping you'll pay them without close inspection.

How to spot them:

• Invoices from companies you don't do business with
• Pressure to pay quickly to avoid penalties
• Payment instructions to unfamiliar accounts

Protection tip: Verify all invoices through your established procurement system and confirm with vendors using known contact information.

How Disposable Email Addresses Help

Using a disposable email address from DISPO.EMAIL for non-essential registrations can help reduce your exposure to these scams. By keeping your primary email address private and using temporary addresses for one-time interactions, you limit the opportunities for scammers to target you.

Remember, staying informed about common scam tactics is your first line of defense in protecting yourself online.