With the ever growing reliance on technology and with it the increase of unscrupulous sources trying to obtain valuable information, we would like to remind you of a few useful tips that can help you and your data stay safe and secure. This applies equally to your personal data as well as professional.
Safety Tips
- Phishing is an attempt to trick people into handing over their personal information such as bank details or password by posing as a reputable company. This is typically attempted via email, but increasingly now through texts too.
- Even if an email or text looks like it is from a legitimate company, always use caution.
Cyber criminals imitate company email addresses, signatures, and logos to build a false sense of trust.
At Manolo Blahnik, our instance of Outlook will indicate when an email is from an external source.
- Phony invoices are one of the most common lures found in spear phishing emails. Cyber criminals use popular brands and images to create a sense of trust. Call the sender to verify this email is legitimate
- Ransomware is typically spread in files attached to spam or phishing emails. It locks your computer screen and prevents you from accessing files until you pay a ransom.
- Be cautious of emails claiming to be from popular supply companies. If you aren't responsible for purchases, never open emails that claim to have tracking information, an order confirmation or an invoice.
- Read emails thoroughly before taking action. Beware of words like “Caution”, “Act Now”, and “Warning”, which are used to draw your attention and make you act quickly.
Cyber criminals use conversational tactics in emails to try to gain their target’s trust. For example, they may add a “FW:” or “RE:” to the subject line.
- Cyber criminals use emotional appeals or triggers in their emails, to convince targets to click a link or to reply. Stay calm and be cautious of emails that evoke strong emotions.
- Keep your password private. No reputable company will ask for your password over email.
- Appeals to curiosity can compel even the most security-conscious individuals to take action. Be cautious before you click a link, download an attachment, always avoid sending confidential information over email.
- Phishing scams increase around popular online shopping days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Keep track of your online orders so you know what emails to expect.
- Did you make a purchase recently? Keep track of your orders so you know what emails to expect. Even if the message looks valid, don’t click on any links but go to the site directly to view order information.
- Trust your instincts. If you have a feeling something is wrong, it's always safest to not open the email, click the link, or download the attachment. Simply delete the email or text.
- Receiving odd text messages requesting to click a link to claim money, or to pay a fee? Do not action, and do not reply! Refer to this link for more information:
https://manoloblahnik.freshdesk.com/support/solutions/articles/80000365243-scam-text-messages-uk-