How do I spot an email scam?
A scam email tries to trick you into giving away your money or personal information. Look for these warning signs: The sender's email address looks strange (like "support@amaz0n.cc" instead of "@amazon.com"). The message uses urgent language like "Act immediately!" or "Your account will be closed!" It asks you to click a link or open an attachment you did not expect. The greeting is vague like "Dear Customer" instead of your name. There are spelling mistakes or odd punctuation. The message asks for your password, credit card number, or social insurance number. Real banks, government agencies, and companies will never ask for this information by email. If something feels off, trust that feeling. You do not have to open it, click anything, or reply.
What to do step by step
- Look at the sender's email address carefully — does it match the company it claims to be from?
- Read the subject line — is it alarming or threatening?
- Do not click any links — hover over them (on a computer) to see where they really go.
- Do not open attachments you were not expecting.
- When in doubt, delete it.
The 3-Second Rule
Before clicking any link in an email, stop and ask: "Did I expect this email?" If the answer is no — do not click.
Important Warning
Never enter your password or credit card number after clicking a link from an email. Always go directly to the website by typing the address yourself.