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In today's digital world, we're constantly being asked to click on links. We click to confirm a delivery, to verify an account, or to check out the latest sale. But not all links are created equal. Scammers are experts at creating fake emails and messages that look incredibly real, all with the goal of getting you to click on a malicious link. The link might say it's for a company you trust, like your bank or a major retailer, but in reality, it's taking you to a fake, copycat website designed to steal your login information, credit card details, or other personal data.

This type of scam is called "phishing," and it's one of the most common and effective cyberattacks out there. But there’s one simple rule that can protect you from most of them: When in doubt, type it in yourself.

The Link Is a Lie

Phishing scams rely on deception. The fake website they send you to will look identical to the real one, with the same logos, colors, and design. You might log in with your username and password, and everything seems to work. But in that moment, you've just handed your credentials directly to a criminal. The scammer now has the keys to your account, and they can use that information to commit identity theft, make fraudulent purchases, or even hold your data for ransom.

Here's how to spot a suspicious link and what to do instead:

• Check the Sender's Email Address: This is the first thing you should do. A real email from your bank will come from their official domain (e.g., @bankofamerica.com). A fake one might use a slightly altered domain like @bankofamerica-support.com or @bancofamerica.net.
• Hover Over the Link (Don't Click!): Before you click on any link, hover your mouse over it. A little box will pop up, showing you the real web address. If the text says "Wells Fargo," but the link shows fakeurl.biz, it's a scam.
• Look for Red Flags in the Message: Phishing emails often have typos, bad grammar, and a sense of extreme urgency. A legitimate company isn't going to threaten to close your account in 24 hours if you don't click a random link.
• Be Skeptical of Attachments: Never open an attachment from someone you don't know, or an unexpected attachment from a known sender. These files can contain malware that can infect your computer.

The Golden Rule: Type It Yourself

The single most effective way to protect yourself from these scams is to simply bypass the link in the message.

1. Open Your Web Browser: Close the suspicious email or text message.
2. Manually Type in the Address: Go to your web browser and type in the official website address yourself (e.g., www.amazon.com, www.chase.com, etc.).
3. Log In Directly: Log in to your account as you normally would. If there’s a real issue with your account, you’ll see it right there in your account dashboard.

This simple action—taking the extra ten seconds to type in the address yourself—can save you from a huge headache and the risk of having your personal information stolen.

By becoming a savvy digital citizen and following this simple rule, you can protect yourself from phishing scams and browse the internet with confidence.

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