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    2 min read 7 stepsApril 2, 2026Verified April 2026

    How to Spot Phishing Emails and Texts

    Learn to identify fake messages designed to steal your personal information.

    In this guide (7 steps):

    1. 1.What is phishing?
    2. 2.Check the sender's email address
    3. 3.Look for urgency and threats
    4. 4.Don't click links in emails
    5. 5.Check for poor grammar
    6. 6.Common phishing scenarios
    7. 7.What to do if you clicked
    1

    What is phishing?

    ~15s
    Phishing is when scammers send fake emails or texts pretending to be from companies you trust (banks, Amazon, USPS, Netflix). They want you to click a link and enter your password or personal information.
    2

    Check the sender's email address

    ~15s
    The "From" name might say "Bank of America" but the email address could be bankofamerica@secure-login-notice.com. Hover over (or tap) the sender's name to see the real email address. Legitimate companies use their own domain.
    3

    Look for urgency and threats

    ~15s
    "Your account will be suspended in 24 hours!" "Unauthorized login detected!" "Payment failed!" Scammers create panic so you act without thinking. Real companies don't threaten you by email.
    4

    Don't click links in emails

    ~15s
    Instead of clicking an email link, open your browser and go to the company's website directly. Type the URL yourself or use a bookmark. This way you know you're on the real site.
    5

    Check for poor grammar

    ~15s
    Many phishing emails have spelling mistakes, odd formatting, or unusual language. Legitimate companies proofread their communications. Errors are a red flag.
    6

    Common phishing scenarios

    ~15s
    Package delivery problems (USPS/FedEx). Payment issues (PayPal/Venmo). Account verification (bank/email). Prize winning. Tax refund. Netflix/subscription problems. All designed to get you to click.
    7

    What to do if you clicked

    ~15s
    Change your password immediately on the affected account. Enable 2FA. Check your account for unauthorized activity. If you entered financial info, call your bank. Report to reportphishing@apwg.org.

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    Official Resources

    FTC Consumer ProtectionCISA — Cybersecurity TipsAARP Fraud Watch Network

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

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    How to Spot Phishing Emails and Texts — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure