Cyber Security: Don’t Take the Bait

Phishing attacks are a growing threat to online security, but with the right knowledge & tools, you can protect yourself. Preventing Phishing attacks is crucial to safeguarding your personal & financial information. As part of our customer awareness initiative at ICICIdirect, we would like to share some effective preventive measures & safety tips to help protect yourself.

Understanding the Phisher’s Arsenals:

Phishing attacks rely on psychological tactics to deceive their targets. They commonly employ tactics that create a sense of urgency, curiosity, fear or panic. Being aware of these tactics is the first step in protecting yourself.

Phishing Safety Tips:

• Think before you click:  Always be wary of emails, links and attachments from unknown sources. A single careless click can expose your sensitive information. Think before you click!

• Practice safe browsing/Use Encrypted Connections: Always look for the padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar, which indicates a secure, encrypted connection (HTTPS). Avoid entering sensitive information on non -secure websites.

• Be careful of what you post & what you download: Remember what you post on the internet will stay there forever. Avoid downloading apps or software that look suspicious. It may contain malware.

• Regularly update Software: Keep your operating systems, web browsers, and applications up to date. Updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

• Use secure VPN Connections: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) will ensure your anonymity on the internet.

• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex, unique passwords for your accounts. Avoid using guessable information, such as birthdates or common words.

• Do not share your Login/Password & other Personal Credentials: Never provide your login details or transaction passwords over the phone or in response to any unsolicited request over email/SMS/Call/Public Social Media platforms.

• Always remember that your Passwords, PINs, Access Code, Card numbers, CVV number are all highly confidential & are not be shared with anyone. Therefore, never divulge/reveal such information even if asked for by company employees.

• Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions: Refrain from conducting sensitive online transactions, such as online banking, over public Wi-fi networks, which may not be secure.

• Verify requests for Money or Sensitive Information: If you receive an email requesting money or sensitive information, independently verify the request by contacting the organization or person through official contact information

• Check the sender’s email address: Phishing emails often come from fake or spoofed email addresses that look similar to legitimate ones.

• Look out for “Urgent” or Threatening language:  Phishing emails often contain attachments or links that lead to fake login pages or malware downloads.

Eg:  Fake SMS

 

 

Eg: Phishing email

 

Eg: Fake Social Media Handle

Eg:  Fake Employee WhatsApp FRAUD Message:

Conclusion:

Your online security in ultimately in your hands. By staying vigilant and adhering to best practices for online security, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing attacks. Your personal and financial information is worth protecting and taking these measures will help maintain your online safety.

PLEASE NOTE: WE AT ICICIDIRECT DO NOT CALL OR REACH OUT TO OUR CUSTOMERS FROM AN INTERNATIONAL NUMBER.