How to Protect Yourself from Email Scams
At Alliance Communications, protecting your online experience is a top priority. Cybercriminals continue to send increasingly convincing emails designed to steal personal information, passwords, and financial details. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid becoming a victim.
What Alliance Communications Will Never Ask for via Email
Alliance Communications will never ask you to provide any of the following through email:
- Your email username or password
- Banking or payment information
- Credit card numbers
- Social Security numbers
- Address verification requests
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) codes or verification codes
If you receive an email claiming to be from Alliance Communications asking for any of this information, it is a scam. Do not respond, click links, or open attachments.
Common Signs of a Phishing Email
Scammers often try to create panic or urgency to get you to act quickly. Watch for these warning signs:
The Sender Doesn’t Look Right
Check the sender’s email address carefully. A message may appear to come from a trusted company while the actual email address is completely different.
Urgent Requests or Threats
Be cautious of emails claiming your account will be suspended, billing information is overdue, or immediate action is required.
Unexpected Links or Attachments
Never click links or download attachments from emails you weren’t expecting.
Spelling and Grammar Mistakes
Many phishing messages contain awkward wording, unusual formatting, or obvious spelling errors.
Requests for Personal Information
Legitimate businesses generally do not ask for passwords, payment information, or sensitive personal data through email.
Something Feels Off
Trust your instincts. If an email seems suspicious, verify it by contacting the company directly using a known phone number or website.
Email Safety Best Practices
A few simple habits can help keep your accounts secure:
- Use strong, unique passwords for every account.
- Consider using a password manager.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever available.
- Keep your computer, phone, and apps updated.
- Use reputable antivirus and security software.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions unless connected through a secure VPN.
- Regularly review your accounts for unusual activity.
What To Do If You Receive a Suspicious Email
- Do not respond.
- Do not click links or open attachments.
- Delete the message or mark it as spam.
- If the message appears to be from Alliance Communications, contact us directly to verify its legitimacy.
We’re here to help. If you have questions about a suspicious email or online security, please call Alliance Communications at (605) 582-6311 before taking action.
Staying informed is one of the best defenses against online scams.