Users of Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook accounts are advised to pay attention to new guidelines shared by Action Fraud to avoid falling prey to cyber criminals. One key recommendation is to pause and evaluate before engaging with any suspicious emails or messages.
“If you receive a text or email that raises doubts, the best course of action is to stop and refrain from taking any action,” emphasized Action Fraud.
It is common for individuals to hastily open messages and unknowingly fall for phishing attempts by clicking on links or responding, putting themselves at risk.
Cyber scammers are continuously evolving their tactics, such as sending messages that mimic communication from known contacts or instilling fear by mentioning fines or account closures.
Mirror Online highlighted recent instances of fraudulent WhatsApp messages urging users to vote, and attempts to extract Amazon account details through scams.
To enhance user security, Action Fraud has introduced three essential rules for users to consider.
These guidelines emphasize caution in responding to messages and refraining from dialing any provided contact numbers within the message.
HERE ARE 3 RULES FROM ACTION FRAUD
• Seize communication – avoid responding, clicking links, calling numbers, or making payments
• Validate authenticity – cross-check information provided in the message with official sources, avoiding direct use of numbers or addresses from the message
• Before deletion, forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk.
The last tip holds significance as it can prevent others from falling victim to criminal activities in the future.
“Your reports contribute to the elimination of malicious emails and websites exploited for fraudulent and cyber criminal activities,” confirmed Action Fraud.
Exercise caution and remain vigilant regarding any suspicious emails that raise doubts.</