Is this email a scammer?

Scammers use a variety of tactics to try to trick you into clicking a link or downloading an attachment. They will often create a sense of urgency or fear to get you to act quickly and without thinking.

They may is this email a scammer that something is wrong with your account and demand immediate action. For example, an attacker may state that your PayPal, Amazon or bank account has been hacked and you must click on a link to resolve the problem. These types of scams are called phishing.

Attackers also try to impersonate a trusted contact such as a colleague, supplier or business partner. These scams are sometimes referred to as whaling and spear phishing. They are aimed at businesses and can include requests to change payment details or transfer funds, or they may simply ask for confidential data such as passwords or bank account information.

Stay Alert: How to Identify Scammer Emails and Protect Yourself from Online Fraud

Another type of scam involves sending you a fake purchase receipt or other notification. These messages may claim to be from Apple, iTunes, iBooks or the App Store, and they usually contain a fake URL or an attachment that contains malware. The bogus receipts are designed to trick you into clicking a link that will lead you to a fraudulent website.

The best way to protect yourself from phishing and other kinds of scams is to learn the signs. Check the sender address to ensure that it matches what is shown in your contacts list. Be wary of attachments, especially those with unusual file extensions. Review privacy policies and opt out of marketing emails. And never give personal information, even your name, via email unless you can confirm the recipient’s identity by calling or visiting them in person.