"Data Backup" Email Scam
"Data Backup" is the name given to an email scam. It is a phishing attack that attempts to get the login credentials of email accounts. The fake message states that the mail service will be terminated in 24 hours unless the user follows the link provided for instructions on how to create a backup. However, when we clicked on the link, it redirected us to a phishing website asking people to sign in with their email accounts. By obtaining victims' passwords, scammers can access emails and potentially any content associated with them.
Moreover, stolen identities from social media platforms (e.g., emails, social networks/media, messengers, forums) can be used by cybercriminals to ask contacts/friends for money or spread malware through malicious links/files. Additionally, stolen finance-related accounts (e.g., online banking, e-commerce, digital wallets) can be abused for unauthorized transactions and purchases.
In conclusion, trusting an email like "Data Backup" can lead to serious privacy issues, financial losses and identity theft.
The full text of the scam email reads as follows:
Thank you for using ******** service.
This ******** account service will be shut down after a grace period of 24hrs after the general system update of our service in December 2022.
We will inform you about data backup below if you want to continue using ********
Free backup or shutdown instructions
If you fail to initiate a back up guide, this service ends on February 2nd and you will not be able to log in any more.
******** backup guide
Backup guide for continued use
You can continue to use this account after the backup initiation process.
Follow the backup link guide and log in to continue using this service.
How to recognize malicious spam emails
In order to recognize malicious scam emails, it is important to be aware of the common tactics used by scammers. Some of these include:
1. Unsolicited emails from unknown senders - Scammers often use email addresses that are not associated with a legitimate company or organization. If you receive an email from an unfamiliar sender, be sure to double-check the address before responding.
2. Urgent requests for personal information - Scammers may try to pressure you into providing sensitive information such as passwords or credit card numbers by claiming that your account will be closed if you don't respond quickly. Legitimate companies will never ask for this type of information via email.
3. Poor grammar and spelling - Many scam emails contain typos and other errors that indicate they were written by someone who does not have a good command of the language being used.
4. Suspicious links or attachments - Be wary of any links or attachments in an email, as they could lead to malicious websites or download malware onto your computer. It's best to avoid clicking on any links or downloading any files unless you are certain they are safe.
