In this episode of Jefferson County's Podcast for the People, Jefferson County's Information Technology Security Officer, Cedric Norfleet, Jr. discusses crucial tips on how to prevent against the phishing which is a fraudulent practice used by sending emails or other messages from scammers pretending to be reputable companies such as retailers (Amazon, Target, etc.) in order to make individuals reveal personal information such as passwords and credit card numbers.
Top Three Preventative Tips against the Dangers of Phishing
1. Do NOT click on any suspicious links - Phishing emails usually come with double letters and misspelled words. If you are unsure about an email, go to companies website and verify. It does NOT hurt to leave a link unopened.
2. Do NOT disclose sensitive information - Most times phishing emails will tell you that the message is URGENT and could result in outcome beyond your control.
3. Verify the legitimacy of emails and calls - Be aware of these tactics used in an attempt to steal information from you including your consent through AI generated voice measures (vishing). If you receive an email or phone call requesting sensitive information or immediate action, independently verify the request through official channels before responding.
Be sure to report all phishing emails as spam and to your computer's spyware.
We appreciate our Jefferson County's IT Team actively working to help enhance our security measures and providing awareness of these threats especially among our elderly community, who can often be a target long after the holiday season.
Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org