With data breaches on the rise, we wanted to take the time to remind you to stay vigilant against phishing attempts. Hackers use fraudulent practices to spoof people into giving up their data and or money. The most common technique is email phishing.
Hackers send messages that appear legitimate or look like they’re from someone you trust so that you engage with the message or click on malicious attachments. The National Grange will never ask for money, gift cards, emergency assistance or any financial transaction via email. It is very important to look at the details of any email to make sure it is in fact coming from the person you believe it to be. Two-factor authentication is enabled for all National Grange email accounts, which require a security code to be sent to the mobile phone of the National Grange President or staff member before allowing access.
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If something seems fishy…it’s probably phishing. Here are some tips to keep in mind to avoid falling victim and to protect yourself against these attacks. Double-check that the sender’s email address matches who they claim to be. National Grange communication from President Chris Hamp will use the email address champ@nationalgrange.org. Any other variation should not be trusted. Don’t click a link or download from someone you don’t know or weren’t expecting. Don’t reply to a suspicious email or message from an email you don’t recognize. When in doubt, call the person and ask if they sent the email. The “Reply” email address should never be different from the person you believe it to be. Be cautious of slight changes in the email address.
Webmaster’s Note: This is not limited to National Grange email, obviously! We’ve recently been experiencing similar issues here in Maine. Please be vigilant and cautious.