Stop the Phish
Your visual guide to spotting and avoiding Email, Text, and Voice scams.
Video: Watch the basics of phishing in 60 seconds!
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Phishing
Scams that arrive in your **email** inbox, trying to trick you with fake links and attachments.
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Smishing
Phishing attacks sent via **text messages** (SMS) with urgent alerts and suspicious links.
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Vishing
Deceptive **voice calls** where scammers impersonate trusted authorities to steal your info.
The 4 Universal Red Flags
🚨Urgent or Threatening
Scammers create a false sense of panic. They claim your account is locked or you'll face penalties if you don't act NOW.
❓Asks for Private Data
Legitimate organizations will NEVER ask for your password or full Social Security number via email or text.
🚩Errors & Unprofessional Tone
Look for spelling mistakes, bad grammar, and generic greetings like "Dear User." It's a huge warning sign.
🎁Too Good To Be True
Offers of free prizes, unexpected refunds, or easy jobs are common bait. If it seems unbelievable, it is.
Know Your Enemy: A Closer Look
Email Phishing Tactics by Prevalence
Phishing emails use several common tricks. This chart shows which tactics are most frequently used to deceive recipients. Mismatched sender addresses and suspicious links are by far the most common giveaways.
Common Smishing (Text) Alerts
Smishing attacks rely on urgent, fake alerts sent to your phone. The most common scams are related to package deliveries and bank account problems, preying on everyday activities to seem legitimate.
Vishing (Voice) Scam Danger Profiles
Vishing scams rely on deception over the phone. This table summarizes the key risks associated with the most common vishing scenarios, helping you assess the threat level immediately.
| Scam Type | Urgency/Pressure | Deception Level | Potential Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impersonating Police / IRS | High (Threats) | High (ID Spoofing) | Very High |
| Bank Fraud Alert | High (Account Freezing) | High (Uses real-sounding bank names) | High |
| Request for Gift Cards | Medium (Immediate 'Need') | Medium (Impersonates boss/friend) | High |
| Tech Support Scam | Medium (Fake Virus Alert) | Low (Ask for remote access) | Medium |
Phishing Analyzer ✨
Paste any suspicious email, text message, or voicemail transcript below. Our Gemini-powered tool will analyze the content and instantly identify the potential scam red flags.
Analyzing... Please wait.
Your 3-Step Action Plan
1
STOP: Engage Your Filter
Do not click any links, open attachments, or reply to the message. **Never let fear or urgency pressure you into action.** Disconnect from the caller immediately by hanging up.
2
REPORT: Alert the Authorities
Forward the suspicious email or a screenshot of the text to your school's IT department immediately. If you received a suspicious call, notify your administrator.
3
VERIFY: Use Official Channels
If you think the request might be real, contact the person or company using a **known, official phone number or website** you look up yourself. Never use the contact information provided in the suspicious message.