What is a telltale sign of a phishing email?

A telltale sign of a phishing email is the presence of urgent requests for sensitive information. Phishing is a malicious attempt to acquire sensitive data such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in electronic communications.

Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency to pressure the recipient into making hasty decisions without carefully thinking through the request. This tactic exploits human emotions and can lead individuals to act quickly, often bypassing security protocols or failing to recognize warning signs. The urgency can manifest as threats of account suspension, claims of unauthorized activity, or even limited-time offers, compelling recipients to respond without considering the legitimacy of the email.

In contrast, while legitimate emails may include branding and logos, personalized greetings, and proper spelling, these features alone do not guarantee the message's authenticity. Cybercriminals can mimic these aspects, but the overarching theme of urgency is a strong indicator that an email may not be genuine.