Keep Phishing Emails at Bay: Just Verify

Spotting Phishing Emails: A Quick Safety Check

Phishing emails are sneaky, but protecting yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. The best defense is simple: pause and double-check before you click.

Start with the sender. Look closely at the email address. Does it match who the message claims to be from? If something feels even slightly off, don’t risk it—verify first.

Watch for warning signs. Many email systems add an “EXTERNAL SENDER” tag to messages from outside your company. If you weren’t expecting the email, treat it with caution. Also, glance at logos, icons, and formatting—if they look strange or out of place, that’s another red flag.

Be cautious with requests. No legitimate email should ever include account numbers, login credentials, or urgent demands for sensitive changes. If you get a message asking to update payment info, reset access, or make another big change, confirm it. Call the sender using a phone number you already trust—not the one listed in the email.

By taking a minute to verify, you can avoid phishing traps and keep your information safe. When in doubt, slow down and check—it’s always worth the extra step.