What is spoofing?

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Spoofing is when a malicious person masquerades as someone or a well-known company to win your trust. The idea is to gain access to your computer or device. The goal is to steal your data, money, and spread malware.

When it comes to spoofing, hackers will use fake emails and websites. Much like a phishing attack, a spoofed email will claim to be from your financial institution or a subscription-based company like Netflix. Spoofing attacks make it appear as though the hacker’s communications can be trusted.  

The spoof reports that your account has been compromised by a fraudster in many cases. The email will have a level of urgency and instructs you to log into their fake site with the link provided. Once you do that, you will be asked to enter your account information to verify your identity. If you do, you are the one compromised. 

Here’s an example. 

Hello, we have encountered difficulties with your information and debiting.

As a result, we will end your Neetflix subscription.

You can use your account to watch Netflix on your favourite devices.

Click here: Restart your subscription

We’re here to help you if you need it.

The Netfnlix Team

If you check closer, Netflix is spelled Neetflix. The Netfnlix Team is also spelt wrong.

If you’re still being spoofed and click on the link, the link more than likely connects you and your computer to a fake site the hacker controls. It’s easy to capture any data stored on your computer. 

Be vigilant

If you receive an email claiming to be from your card issuer, call your provider for further information.

  • Remain vigilant against the most common types of spoofing. 
  • Call to confirm.  If you’re being asked to submit personal information, like a password or credit card number, call the sender to confirm. If you receive an email claiming to be from your card issuer, call your provider for further information.
  • Look out for strange attachments: Don’t open attachments that you don’t expect to receive.

Terry Cutler

I’m Terry Cutler, the creator of Internet Safety University, an educational system helping to defend corporations and individuals against growing cyber threats. I’m a federal government-cleared cybersecurity expert (a Certified Ethical Hacker), and the founder of Cyology Labs, a first-line security defence firm headquartered in Montréal, Canada. In 2020, I wrote a bestselling book about the secrets of internet safety from the viewpoint of an ethical hacker. I’m a frequent contributor to National & Global media coverage about cyber-crime, spying, security failures, internet scams, and social network dangers families and individuals face daily.