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Do not worry, this was a phishing simulation conducted by the UHN Digital Security Team. Protect Yourself from Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks have become increasingly common in our digitally connected world. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals and gain access to their sensitive information. It is crucial for everyone to be aware of these threats and take proactive measures to protect themselves.
 
Via these types of phishing simulations, we aimed to raise awareness among our staff about the risks associated with phishing emails. This exercise highlighted the importance of staying vigilant and educated in order to safeguard our personal and organizational data.
 
 

Recognizing Phishing Emails

Phishing emails are designed to trick recipients into revealing confidential information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card details, or even social security numbers. To avoid falling victim to these scams, it is essential to know how to identify them:

  1. Check for suspicious senders or email addresses: Phishing emails often come from unfamiliar or suspicious email addresses. Be cautious if you receive an email from an unknown sender, especially if it asks for personal or financial information.
  2. Look for grammatical errors and poor formatting: Phishing emails often contain spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, or awkward phrasing. Legitimate organizations usually have professional and well-written communications.
  3. Be wary of urgent requests: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency, pressuring recipients to act quickly without thinking. If an email demands immediate action or threatens negative consequences, it is likely a phishing attempt.
  4. Hover over links before clicking: Phishing emails often contain links that appear legitimate but redirect to malicious websites. Before clicking any link, hover over it to view the full URL and ensure it matches the expected destination.

Protecting Yourself: Best Practices

To shield yourself from phishing attacks, here are some essential practices to follow:

  • Use strong and unique passwords: Create strong passwords that include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
  • Be cautious of sharing personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details, through email or messaging platforms. Legitimate organizations will never ask for such information via these channels.

Stay One Step Ahead

Phishing attacks are a constant threat in today’s digital landscape. By understanding the tactics used by cybercriminals and following best practices to protect yourself, you can stay one step ahead. At UHN, we prioritize digital security and continuously educate our staff to minimize the risks associated with phishing. Remember, your vigilance and awareness are the key to safeguarding your personal and financial information.