Use this guide to determine if unwanted emails in your inbox are phishing attacks or spam.
Junk/Spam vs Phishing
| |
Junk/Spam |
Phishing |
|
What is it?
|
Unwanted advertisements for products or services
Includes links to websites offering products or services
Does not typically contain attachments
Does not require immediate action |
Wants your personal information: credit card number, password, bank account, etc.
Often targeted: Sent to a specific individual or group and contains relevant information.
Includes malicious links or attachments to fake websites, malware downloads, or documents.
May appear to be from a person or organization you know in order to gain your trust.
Has a sense of urgency |
|
What should I do?
|
Report using the Report Junk Button
|
Report using the Report Phish Button
|
Some spam emails (2.3%) are also considered phishing attacks.
Shared Traits
 |
Unsolicited - You didn’t ask for the email
Harmful - Both either attempt to steal your information or waste your time
Illegitimate - Use techniques like spoofing to make it to your inbox
|