How to Recognize Suspicious Emails

Phishing emails can look very professional. However, there are often clues that indicate an attempted scam.

Check the Sender

The displayed sender name is not enough.

For example, a message may appear as "Microsoft Support" while the actual sender address belongs to a completely different domain.

Look for Unexpected Requests

Be particularly careful with messages that unexpectedly:

• ask for a password
• request a payment
• contain a login link
• request personal information
• ask you to open an attachment

Unusual Language

Spelling mistakes are not proof of phishing. Professional-looking messages can also be fraudulent.

Unusual wording, an unfamiliar tone or unexpected urgency can nevertheless provide additional clues.

Do Not Rely on a Single Sign

One suspicious characteristic does not automatically mean that a message is phishing.

However, several unusual characteristics together should be a reason to examine the message more carefully.