What is URL Phishing – Tricks to Prevent It

URL phishing is a cyberattack that hackers use to obtain one’s personal information. In this blog, you will learn in detail about what is URL phishing, along with the tips to prevent it.  Therefore, ensure following all the tricks to enjoy a safe, secure, and risk-free online experience. Also, don’t forget to protect your network with iProVPN’s security. 

What is URL Phishing?

URL phishing is an online scam that involves sending a deceptive email with a malicious link, guiding unsuspecting victims to a fake website. Its purposes range from stealing bank details to installing malware. The primary aim is to deceive users into providing login credentials and granting access to various accounts, including email, social media marketing accounts, and banking information.

How Does URL Phishing Work?

URL phishing happens in two steps. First, the attacker makes a fake website that looks real, using similar names or addresses. They might also use IP addresses, but this can be a problem for users in different places worldwide. In the second step, the attacker sends emails with phishing links, tempting users with things they’re interested in guiding them to the fake site they made.

Moreover, these emails often trick people, making them feel like they have to do something quickly, like finish a task soon. Fake website links might seem real initially but can take you to the fraudulent site once you enter details. 

How to Detect URL Phishing?

Hackers use URL phishing to take your username and password. They also try to get your bank details to take your money. Even though these scammers often change how they do this, you can still figure out if they are trying to trick you if you pay attention. Here are some things to look for to spot a URL phishing attack:

1. Always Be Alert for Signs in the Message

Emails saying “Your account will be seized” and using alarming language to make you panic are clear warnings. Scammers want you to click without thinking, so the key rule is to never act urgently in such situations. Before clicking on any links, always use a malicious link checker to verify the safety of the URL and avoid falling victim to phishing attempts.

2. Verify Sender’s Address

Fake websites often appear incredibly authentic, making it challenging for an average user to spot them. Nevertheless, the safest approach is to consistently scrutinize the sender’s email address. Even if the address seems similar, it may contain spelling errors, alterations in the URL structure, extra letters, or punctuation. Always watch out for that one error.

3. Real Websites Don’t Request Personal Information

At last, remember that a genuine website or business won’t pressure you to provide credentials. Legitimate sources never ask for sensitive information. Therefore, if an email requests such details, it’s a clear indication that it’s not authentic.

Are There Any Types of URL Phishing?

Yes. There are certain types of URL phishing. Check out the most common ones below:

• Legit Links

These are links that aim to trick users by imitating real websites such as Google and then redirecting them to a harmful source. Hence, it’s crucial to check the URL address consistently.

• Typosquatting

This is a type of URL phishing where scammers create a fraudulent link by altering or swapping characters, making it appear identical to a genuine link. However, it’s actually fake and leads users to a scam website. For instance, using “Intsgram.com” instead of “Instgram.com.”

• Subfolder Links

These links seem like genuine websites, but within the URL, there’s an entirely incorrect subfolder.

• Masked Links 

Masked links are hyperlinks that conceal real links, also termed URL Masking. The primary goal is to deceive users into thinking they are in one domain when, in reality, they are in another.

Also, read Instagram Phishing here. 

What If I Accidentally Click a Phishing Link?

Attackers commonly send a password reset or confirmation link that seems legitimate. Clicking on these links can lead to automatic installation of malware or spyware on your device. Initially, it’s hard to spot as the website appears genuine. It’s only when cybercriminals successfully steal your username, password, and bank details that the damage becomes evident. However, no need to worry, as I will share tricks to identify and prevent URL phishing in this blog.

How Do I Know If a Link is Safe?

If you want to know about the authenticity of a link, then always look for the following:

1. Use a link checker tool to verify the website’s authenticity.
2. Ensure that the site uses HTTPS protocol, which is the safest data transmitter.
3. Check Google reviews for suspicious websites. If reviews seem unnatural, don’t click on the website link.
4. Look for the sender’s contact information to verify authenticity.
5. Check for the domain age of the website to ensure its authenticity. 

How to Prevent URL Phishing Attacks?

Phishing URLs can be detected using various methods. Common approaches include:

• URL Filtering:

Identify and block repeated use of phishing URLs listed in threat intelligence feeds, preventing certain known-bad URLs from reaching users’ inboxes.

• Domain Reputation:

Anti-phishing software analyzes emails, flagging indicators of phishing URLs. A domain that’s only a few hours old is often flagged as potentially malicious.

• VPN Usage:

Connect to a VPN to enhance phishing email prevention. A VPN encrypts your IP address, safeguarding your email and sensitive information from potential scammers.

• AI-Based Protection:

Deploy AI-based tools to detect fraudulent emails and websites by analyzing abnormal URL structures, effectively blocking malicious URLs.

• Security Awareness Training:

Incorporate URL phishing awareness into your security training program. Ensure employees can identify and report these attacks using phishing simulation technology to evaluate vulnerability and enhance awareness.

How to Report Phishing URLs

If you come across any fraudulent URLs, promptly notify your IT department to block them and implement necessary security measures. If you lack an IT department, forward the email content to APWG. Additionally, share a copy of the deceptive email with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, a US government reporting page. Report the website to Google for blocking. If you’ve fallen victim to phishing, complete the IC3 form.

Conclusion

I hope you now have a clear understanding of what URL phishing is and how to prevent it. It’s essential to stay vigilant and employ the preventive measures discussed in this blog to avoid falling victim to URL phishing. Refrain from clicking on any suspicious or unfamiliar links. If you suspect a scammer has obtained your details, report phishing promptly using the provided links mentioned in the blog.