[Last updated February 29, 2024]
Staying safe on the internet is becoming increasingly important and difficult, especially with so many types of scams directed at seniors. In 2022, phishing was the most reported crime submitted to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Phishing is an internet scam in which attackers send emails or other messages from fraudulent but seemingly legitimate sources with links to websites that request or steal private information. Falling victim to a phishing scam can lead to severe consequences, such as identity theft and financial loss. Time is of the essence after clicking on a phishing link. Continue reading to learn what to do if you’ve unintentionally clicked on a phishing link in a suspicious message or email.
What is a phishing scam?
Phishing is an internet scam in which scammers send fake emails, text messages, or other online communications. The scammer creates a message that appears to come from a trusted source, such as a well-known company, organization, family member, or other trustworthy place. Some messages ask that the recipient provide personal information. Others have links or attachments that install harmful software on the victim’s device to steal their information or otherwise compromise their data. If the recipient provides this information or clicks on the link, the scammer can use the stolen information to make purchases, open new accounts, or perform other illegal activities that are financially damaging to the scam victim.
What should I do if I click on a phishing link?
Taking the following steps immediately after clicking on a phishing link is important. Failing to take the proper steps right away can put your private information at risk and leave you vulnerable to scammers and data brokers.
Step 1: Disconnect your device
If you have clicked on a phishing link, you should immediately disconnect your device from the internet to stop the phony site from collecting your information. How you disconnect depends on the type of device you use.
To disconnect your cell phone from the internet, first disable your Wi-Fi. You can do this on most devices by tapping the Wi-Fi icon in the settings menu. If your cell phone has a data plan, you will also want to take the extra step to disconnect your data.
Disconnect data on iPhone:
- • Go to Settings.
- • Tap Cellular.
- • Turn Cellular Data off.
Disconnect data on Android:
- • Go to Settings.
- • Tap Network & Internet.
- • Turn Mobile Data off.
Unplug your laptop or desktop computer if connected to an internet or ethernet cord, or disable the Wi-Fi by clicking on the Wi-Fi symbol.
Step 2: Scan for malware
If you’ve clicked on a phishing link, the website may have installed malware on your device. Malware is software designed to grant a scammer access to your computer and private information. Ensure no malware is installed on your device after clicking a phishing link. You can purchase and install an antivirus program, such as Bitdefender or Malwarebytes, or hire a professional to scan your device and remove any malware they find.
Step 3: Change your saved information
Phishers want to gain access to your sensitive information. Change any information saved on your device, even if you don’t think it is vulnerable. Examples of what you should change after clicking on a phishing link include:
- • Online banking sign-in credentials.
- • Email passwords.
- • Credit and debit card numbers.
- • Passwords for financial services like PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, or other apps linked to your bank account or debit cards.
- • Usernames and passwords for streaming services.
- • Usernames and passwords for social media accounts.
Step 4: Back up your data
You should always store important information on an external device in case of a security breach from a phisher. If you’ve clicked on a phishing link, after disconnecting your device from the internet, back up your files and sensitive information on an external hard drive or USB thumb drive to avoid losing important information. You can find either device online or at any major electronics retailer.
Step 5: Protect yourself from future fraud
After falling victim to a phishing scam, becoming more vigilant about your personal data is crucial. You can stay aware of future fraudulent activity by setting up a fraud alert, which notifies credit card companies that you may be a victim of fraud and makes it more difficult for a scammer to open a new account in your name. You might also consider freezing your credit report, which makes it so that no one can open a new credit account under your name. The freeze lasts until you lift it. All three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) offer free fraud alert and credit freezing services.
How to spot a phishing email
Being safe online is essential, and knowing what to look for so that you do not fall victim to a scam or phishing email is just as crucial. You should look for the following to avoid clicking on a phishing link.
Always check the sender’s address when you get an email from someone who claims to represent a company. If the sender’s email address does not include the company’s name or has symbols and letters that look unintelligible, that email is probably untrustworthy.
Another indication that the email is illegitimate is if the sender claims you must act immediately. A sense of urgency is usually a red flag for a phishing scam. Suspicious hyperlinks and attachments also might indicate a phishing scam. Do not click on hyperlinks or attachments from an untrustworthy source. Phishing emails often have incorrect spelling and grammar and generic greetings that don’t use your name, so keep an eye out for those issues, too.
Be safe online
Seniors may be vulnerable to phishing and other common scams, but you can avoid falling victim to scammers by being informed and taking the proper steps to protect your parent or yourself. Be sure to tell a trusted loved one, especially if they are tech-savvy, if you’ve clicked on a suspicious link or need help with the steps outlined above. With the proper knowledge, you can feel confident using the internet safely.
