How to know if its a phishing website or link either sent on mobile, whatsapp or on a website and how to prevent to become its victim
To identify phishing websites or links sent via mobile, WhatsApp, or embedded on other websites, and to prevent becoming a victim, here are the key indicators and best prevention practices based on the latest 2025 guidelines:
How to Recognize a Phishing Website or Link
Check the URL Carefully
Look for HTTPS and a padlock icon in the address bar. While HTTPS is not a full guarantee (phishing sites increasingly use this), lack of it is a red flag.
Watch out for small misspellings or substitutions in the domain name (e.g., using "0" instead of "O", or adding extra characters like ".co.uk" changed to ".org").
Hover over links to preview the true URL before clicking, especially on shortened URLs which can mask the destination.
Assess Website Content and Quality
Legitimate sites have polished design, proper spelling and grammar, clear branding, and a “Contact Us” page with real information.
Phishing sites often contain spelling mistakes, poor grammar, low-resolution images, or lack detailed contact info.
Check Website Ownership and Age
Use WHOIS lookup tools to verify the domain registration. Brand sites are usually registered to companies and have long histories; suspect sites may be newly registered or owned by individuals.
Watch for Suspicious Behavior in Messages and Emails
Links may come with urgent or threatening messages pushing for immediate action.
Generic greetings, poor language, unexpected attachments, or unfamiliar sender addresses are common red flags.
Beware of links that differ visually from the displayed text or that lead to unexpected destinations.
Special Signs in Different Contexts
On WhatsApp or mobile, be wary of unknown senders and avoid clicking links without verifying their source.
Be cautious with deals or offers that seem “too good to be true” or requests for personal or financial information.
How to Prevent Becoming a Victim of Phishing
Do Not Click Links Immediately: Always hover or long-press to preview URLs before clicking.
Verify Sender Independently: If you receive a suspicious link or message, confirm with the sender through another channel (phone call, official website).
Use Updated Security Software: Antivirus and anti-phishing tools can detect and block malicious links and attachments.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on your accounts to reduce damage if credentials are compromised.
Keep Devices and Apps Updated to patch vulnerabilities exploited by attackers.
Educate Yourself and Others about phishing tactics and encourage skepticism toward unsolicited links and requests.
Use Official Apps and Websites Only: Download apps from official stores and visit websites by typing the URL directly instead of using links.
Regularly Check Account Activity for unauthorized access.
Employ Phishing Detection Tools: Use online phishing link checkers or browser extensions designed to flag malicious URLs.
By combining careful inspection of URLs and content, cautious behavior around links, and robust technical defenses, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to phishing attacks.