Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and fake emails remain one of their most effective weapons. Whether it’s phishing, malware, or identity theft, a single click on a deceptive email can open the door to serious damage.
In this article, we explain how to identify fraudulent emails, the tell-tale signs to watch for, and what immediate steps to take if you think you’ve fallen for one.
Email is a daily tool for businesses and individuals alike, making it an attractive target for attackers. Cybercriminals often disguise their messages as communications from trusted sources such as banks, suppliers, government bodies, or even colleagues.
These emails are designed to:
Trick you into revealing sensitive information
Install malicious software on your device
Steal account credentials
Gain unauthorised access to business systems
If undetected, a single click could put your entire network and data at risk.
Fortunately, with a bit of awareness, many phishing emails can be identified before any damage is done. Here are the most common red flags:
Even if the name looks familiar, inspect the actual email address. Look for unusual domains or slight changes in spelling (e.g., info@micros0ft.com).
Scare tactics are a hallmark of phishing emails. Phrases like “Your account has been compromised” or “Immediate action required” are designed to rush you into clicking.
If you’re not expecting a document or link, don’t click or download. Hover over links to check the real destination, and verify any unexpected attachments.
Many fake emails contain spelling mistakes, unusual phrasing, or off-brand formatting. These are often signs that the email didn’t come from a legitimate source.
No reputable company will ask for login credentials, personal data, or payment details via email.
Some phishing emails lead to fake websites that look almost identical to real ones. Always check the URL carefully before entering any details.
If you’ve already clicked a link or downloaded an attachment from a suspicious email, act quickly:
Cut off Wi-Fi or unplug the network cable immediately. This helps prevent malware from spreading to other devices.
Time is of the essence. Contact your IT team or a trusted provider like Fusion IT so they can assess and contain any potential threats.
Use antivirus or endpoint protection software to perform a full scan. If malware is detected, follow the recommended removal steps.
If you entered login details, change those passwords immediately. Also update any other accounts using the same credentials.
Monitor your email, online banking, and other key accounts for suspicious logins or transactions.
If you use Microsoft 365, mark the email as phishing to help protect others in your organisation.
Prevention is key when it comes to email security. Here are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
Advanced threat protection, spam filtering, and malware detection tools can stop threats before they reach your inbox.
Your team is your first line of defence. Equip them with the knowledge to spot phishing scams and handle suspicious emails confidently.
MFA makes it significantly harder for attackers to gain access, even if passwords are compromised.
Regular updates and patching ensure your software has the latest defences against known vulnerabilities.
A reliable partner like Fusion IT can offer continuous monitoring, quick response times, and strategic advice to keep your systems safe.
Fusion IT supports businesses across the UK with advanced cybersecurity solutions and responsive support. From managed IT services to staff awareness training, we help organisations build resilient defences against evolving digital threats.
Think your inbox might be a weak link? Let’s fix that. Whether you need a review of your current protections or a full cybersecurity package, Fusion IT is here to help.
Contact us today to discuss your needs.
Disclaimer: This article is for guidance only. Fusion IT does not accept responsibility for any actions taken based on this information.
We provide IT support to businesses across the UK. Based in the North West, we regularly support clients in areas such as Chester, Liverpool, Manchester, Birkenhead, Wrexham, North Wales, Cheshire, the Wirral, Merseyside, Denbighshire, Conwy, Gwynedd and Ynys Môn. Whether you’re looking for local IT support or nationwide coverage, Fusion IT is here to help.
18/08/2025 