Categories: SecuritySecurity Alerts

Malicious links: what they are and how to protect yourself

Every day, millions of cell phone users receive malicious links via SMS, email, or social media. These scams are growing more sophisticated—scammers now commonly use artificial intelligence to create error-free and even personally tailored messages.

Common tactics used by scammers

Shortened or masked links: Attackers use shortened URLs or complex domain names to obscure the true destination, making it difficult to spot a dangerous link before clicking.
Deceptive promises and urgency: Phishing messages often promise sweepstakes winnings, flash sales, package deliveries, or urgent bank notifications to lure users into clicking quickly without thinking.
Fake websites and data entry forms: Clicking a malicious link may redirect you to a convincing fake website where you’re asked to input sensitive details—like banking data, Social Security numbers, or passwords—or may silently trigger a malware download.
Impersonation tactics: Scammers frequently impersonate trusted organizations—such as banks, government agencies (e.g., IRS), or online retailers—to legitimize their claims and increase the likelihood of success.
Social media exploits: On platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, fake profiles or posts lure users with job offers, urgent security warnings, or giveaway announcements, often prompting users to click malicious links or divulge private information.

Real-world impact

Financial loss and data theft: These attacks can result in financial fraud, identity theft, and corporate data breaches.
Malware and ransomware: Malicious links can install viruses or ransomware on personal or work devices, sometimes encrypting files and demanding a ransom in return for data restoration.

Tips to Protect Yourself

Preview before clicking: On a desktop, hover your mouse over a link to reveal its destination. On mobile, press and hold the link for a preview. Avoid clicking if the destination looks suspicious or is unfamiliar.
Beware of unknown senders: Avoid clicking on links from unknown or unsolicited sources, whether by email, text, or direct message.
Look for signs of deception: Watch for URL misspellings, extra symbols or hyphens, unrecognized domain names, and urgent language or threats of account suspension.
Use security solutions: Consider security tools like URL defenses or anti-phishing filters offered by major security providers and popular email services.
Be skeptical of official requests: U.S. government agencies like the IRS or USPS will not demand personal data or payment over email or text. Always verify through official channels if in doubt.
Report suspicious messages: You can report phishing attempts to authorities like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or, in the case of IRS-related scams, to phishing@irs.gov.