Phishing emails are one of the most common ways cybercriminals target small businesses. They’re designed to trick you into clicking a bad link, opening an attachment, or giving away passwords. One wrong click can compromise your entire business email account.
At MaineBizPros, we’ve seen phishing attempts fool even the most cautious people. The good news? Once you know the signs, they’re easier to spot.
1. Watch for Urgent or Scary Language
Phishing emails often try to panic you into acting fast:
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“Your account will be closed in 24 hours!”
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“Invoice overdue — pay now!”
If an email feels pushy or threatening, slow down before you click.
2. Check the Sender’s Address Carefully
The name might look familiar, but the actual address is off. Example:
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[email protected] (note the “1” instead of “l”).
Always hover over the sender’s email to see the full address.
3. Hover Over Links (Don’t Click)
Phishing emails often hide dangerous links behind text like “Login here”. Hover your mouse over the link to see where it actually goes. If the web address looks suspicious or doesn’t match the real company, don’t click.
4. Be Wary of Attachments
Unexpected attachments — especially ZIP files, Word docs, or PDFs — can contain malware. If you weren’t expecting a file, don’t open it.
5. Look for Typos and Odd Formatting
Poor spelling, weird grammar, and off-looking logos are common signs. Legitimate companies take care with their communication.
What to Do if You Suspect a Phish
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Don’t reply, click, or open attachments.
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Report it to your email provider.
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If you’re unsure, call the business directly using a trusted number.
Final Thoughts
Phishing is sneaky, but once you know the tricks, you can spot most attempts a mile away. Training yourself and your staff to pause and double-check is the best defense.
At MaineBizPros, we help businesses set up filters, authentication, and security tools that make phishing harder to get through in the first place — and we’re here to help if something slips by.
