Seven ways to check for e-mail scams
April 15, 2009 Computer Safety Tip
Microsoft has given a list of seven ways it recommends users should check whether an e-mail is a scam.
Now-a-days, e-mail scamming is a serious problem and it’s often responsible for various phishing scams as well as the spread of malware.
Here is the check list Microsoft offers:
1. It sounds too good (or bad) to be true.
2. It asks for your personal information.
3. It looks unprofessional.
4. It’s urgent.
5. It promised you free money.
6. The “From” name doesn’t match the actual e-mail address.
7. It looks like it’s from a real friend of yours, and asks for money.
Microsoft also recommends checking the Safety and Security section of Windows Live Help, as well as the Snopes.com, to verify if an e-mail is legitimate. Microsoft advises changing your password if you’re unsure about the Windows Live ID page you just signed in at.
Microsoft has given warnings about new malware and new phishing scams before, but this is the first time Microsoft has made a list of what to watch out for when trying to figure out if an e-mail is a scam or not.
