Phishing is an attempt to steal your personal information by masquerading as an authentic organization.
Typically, phishers send an email claiming to be from a reputable organization, like your bank, asking you to click a link and sign in to confirm your account details or fix a problem with your account. Instead of visiting the bank’s website, the link takes you to a fake site that collects your personal information.
Spear-phishing is a variation of phishing. The scammer gathers specific information about you and uses it to tailor their pitch, so the fake email seems even more real.
Smishing is a phishing message sent via text message, or Short Messaging Service (SMS).
Quishing is a form of phishing that uses QR codes to trick victims into sharing personal information or downloading harmful software. Scammers may send a QR code in an email, text message, or even post them in public places. When scanned, the QR code directs you to a fraudulent site designed to get access to your phone or computer.