By now, we’ve all probably heard about phishing scams. But did you know there’s more than one way to be cyber scammed? That’s right; in addition to phishing, there’s also vishing and smishing!
While phishing, vishing and smishing are all types of cyber-attacks that aim to steal your personal information, there are some key differences between them.
In this article, we’re outlining the three main ways you can be caught out by these scams and how to protect yourself.
What is Phishing?
The most common of the three, phishing is a type of cyber-attack that occurs over email, SMS or direct social media messages. These messages appear to be from a legitimate source, like a company you have an account with, a bank or online retailer.
The message usually contains a link that will direct you to a fake website that looks almost identical to the real one. The purpose of this fake website is to trick you into providing your personal information, such as usernames, passwords, banking details, as well as ID and PIN numbers.
This type of cyber-attack is often very successful because scammers create a sense of urgency or fear. If you’re unsure about any messages you receive, DO NOT click on the links.
First, do an online search on the email address or search the company’s telephone number, call them and ask for assistance.
Taking a few minutes to do a background check can possibly save you thousands of Rands.
What is Vishing?
The name "vishing" comes from a combination of "voice" and "phishing”.
It’s similar to phishing in that the aim is to get your personal information, but instead of using email or text messages, the scammer chooses to contact you using a phone call.
In this method, scammers pretend to be representatives of legitimate organisations, like banks or even in some cases, a government department. They will then try to get you to reveal your personal information during the call.
Vishing attacks are very convincing because the scammer has many techniques to convince you to reveal your personal information, usually playing on urgency. Again though, like with phishing, avoid sharing your details.
Rather ask for their information (name and phone number) and tell them you’ll call them back. If they pressure you or get aggressive, chances are it’s a scam.
What is Smishing?
Smishing is a type of cyber-attack that uses SMS to trick unsuspecting people into revealing their personal information. Like with vishing, "smishing" comes from a combination of "SMS" and "phishing”.
Smishing attacks usually involve scammers sending an SMS from organisations that seem to be legitimate, like your bank or an online retailer. The message will likely include a link that directs you to a fake website, or it may even ask you to reply with your personal details.
While these attacks are often less sophisticated than phishing or vishing attacks, they can still be very effective.
Clicking on a link from SMSes can also download malware onto your smartphone and give scammers access to other sensitive information stored on your device. Remember, your bank will never ask you to supply your personal information this way. Always take steps to verify the request before you supply any important details.
How to Protect Yourself
To protect yourself from phishing, vishing and smishing attacks, there are several steps you can take:
- Be cautious of unsolicited messages or phone calls asking for your personal information.
- Verify the legitimacy of the source before entering your personal information on any site.
- Use two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Keep your software up to date to prevent malware infections.
- Use a reputable antivirus program to detect and remove malware from your devices
Phishing, vishing and smishing are all dangerous cyber-attacks that can result in the theft of your personal information and your hard-earned cash. It's important to be vigilant and take steps to protect yourself from these attacks. By taking the time to be cautious and running simple background checks, you can drastially reduce your risk of falling victim to these types of attacks.
