How to Identify Phishing Emails

Phishing emails are fraudulent messages that try to trick you into revealing sensitive information, clicking malicious links, or downloading harmful files. They often look like genuine messages from trusted companies, but with a few careful checks, you can spot them before it's too late.

Common Signs of a Phishing Email

1. Suspicious Sender Address
The email may look like it’s from a legitimate company (e.g. Microsoft, Amazon), but the actual sender address doesn’t match.
Example: support@micr0soft-alerts.com

2. Generic Greetings
Legitimate companies usually address you by name. Phishing emails often use generic terms like “Dear Customer” or “User”.

3. Urgent or Threatening Language
Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency:

• “Your account will be locked!”

• “Immediate action required!”
  This pressure is designed to make you act without thinking.

4. Unusual Links or Attachments
Hover over any links (without clicking) to see the actual URL. If the address looks suspicious or doesn’t match the sender’s domain, don’t click it.
Never open unexpected attachments, especially .zip, .exe, or Office files with macros.

5. Spelling or Grammar Mistakes
Professional organisations usually don’t send emails with poor grammar or spelling errors.

6. Requests for Sensitive Information
No legitimate company will ask for passwords, PINs, or full bank details over email.

Examples of Common Phishing Scams

• Fake login pages pretending to be Microsoft 365 asking you to enter your credentials

• Invoices or receipts for things you didn’t purchase

• Voicemail or missed delivery notifications with links to malicious files

• Impersonation of your boss or colleagues asking you to buy gift cards or send payments

What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Email

1. Don’t click any links or download attachments.

2. Do not reply to the email.

3. Report it immediately using your Microsoft 365 "Report Phishing" button if available.

4. Forward it to our support team at: support@fusionit.uk

5. Delete the email after reporting.

Need Help?
If you’re ever unsure about an email, it's better to check with us first. Our team can confirm whether it’s legitimate or not.

Ticket Portal: https://support.fusionit.uk
Email: support@fusionit.uk
Phone: 01244 835080

Disclaimer:
This article is intended as a general guide. While we aim to ensure accuracy, Fusion IT cannot be held responsible for any issues, data loss, or damage resulting from the use or misapplication of these instructions. If in doubt, please contact our support team before making changes.