(NC) Phishing is a common tactic that cybercriminals use to steal personal and financial information from you. Messages usually take the form of an email or text from someone pretending to be someone they are not, such as your bank.

Be wary of any of the following phishing scare tactics:

• Messages that ask you to share your personal information.
• Threatening messages, including claims that they will close your account, arrest you or send you a fine.
• Messages that contain a suspicious link or file.

The best way to protect yourself from a phishing campaign is to be extremely cautious anytime you receive a message that asks you to reveal personal information – no matter how legitimate that message may appear at first glance. Use common sense. If you’re always looking out for something that doesn’t look right, you’ll be more likely to spot a phishing scam.

Whenever possible, try to verify requests for information through another channel. For example, you might call your bank at a verified number to double check that a message claiming to be coming from them is legitimate. Remember, most reputable organizations will never ask you to reveal sensitive information through an email or text message.

Find more information and resources to help you protect against cyber threats at getcybersafe.ca.