By now, it’s no longer a secret that WordPress is one of the most popular platforms on the web, making it a delicious target for cybercriminals. And their tactics are constantly evolving.
Today, cybercriminals have countless methods and types of phishing emails they use to trick users and get them to share sensitive information or install malware.
Here are four common types of phishing emails you should be aware of as a WordPress site owner.
🛠️ The ‘Plugin/Theme Update’ Phish:
Beware of emails alerting you about a “critical” plugin or theme update, especially if they provide a direct download link.
Always verify the authenticity by visiting the official WordPress repository or the developer’s website.
Rule of thumb? Never click on direct links, even if they seem urgent! Ensure your plugins, themes, and WordPress core are regularly updated from official sources.
🚫 The ‘Account Terminated’ Threat:
A classic! You might receive an email warning that your WordPress account is about to be terminated due to some “violation”.
They’ll ask you to click on a link and “confirm” your login details to prevent losing your account forever.
Remember, official WordPress communications will never threaten sudden account termination without prior notice.
💳 The ‘Payment Problem’ Ploy:
This one usually targets eCommerce sites. An official-looking email claims there’s an issue with your payment gateway or recent transactions.
They’ll often ask you to click on a link and input sensitive information to “resolve” the issue.
Always approach these with skepticism. Reach out directly to your payment service if you’re ever in doubt.
🤝 The ‘Collaboration Offer’ Con:
This is a tricky one because who doesn’t love collaboration offers? Cybercriminals prey on this enthusiasm by sending emails with offers to collaborate or advertise on your blog.
The catch? They might include a “portfolio link” which is actually a phishing site aimed to harvest your credentials.
So, how can you tell if it’s a scam?
If the email greets you with terms like ‘@username’, ‘Darling’, ‘Dear’ or any other salutation that doesn’t use your actual name, it’s a red flag that it might be from a scammer or a bot.
Always inspect links and email addresses closely, and trust your gut.
While phishing can seem intimidating, staying informed and being vigilant can keep you, your content, and your readers safe.
Knowledge is power (and safety)!
