Phishing
What is Phishing?
A fake email, text message, or website that impersonates someone you trust — a bank, a coworker, a service provider — to trick you into handing over passwords, clicking harmful links, or sending money. The message looks legitimate but leads to a copycat site designed to steal your credentials.
Why Phishing Matters
It's the most common way accounts get compromised — and no antivirus fully stops someone from typing their password into the wrong site. Training plus MFA is the real defense.
Related Topics
Related Terms
MFA / Two-Factor Authentication
Logging in with your password plus a second proof of identity — a code from your phone, an authenticator app, a hardware key, or an app approval. Even if someone steals your password, they still can't get in without that second factor.
SecurityMalware
Any software written to harm you or your business — viruses, spyware, trojans, ransomware, and adware all fall under this word. It can steal passwords, encrypt files, hijack browsers, or use your computer to attack others.
SecurityRansomware
Malware that encrypts your files and demands payment for the decryption key. It spreads through phishing emails, malicious downloads, or compromised remote access. Paying doesn't guarantee you'll get your files back — and marks you as a target for repeat attacks.
Security