Phishing is a form of fraud used to obtain personal or confidential information, usually financial details such as card numbers, account credentials, or passwords. Cybercriminals commonly use e-mails, text messages, social media, or fake websites to deceive victims.
Types of phishing
- Phishing websites (spoofed websites): Fake websites designed to look like legitimate ones in order to trick users into entering personal information, such as passwords or card details. For example, a fraudulent site may imitate the Magenta Pay website. Remember that you can only manage your account or perform transactions through the Magenta Pay app on your mobile phone.
- E-mail phishing: Fraudulent e-mails that attempt to obtain personal or confidential information.
- Smishing: Phishing via text message (SMS). These messages typically urge you to take immediate action, such as visiting a website and entering personal information, including card details or passwords.
- Angler phishing: Cybercriminals impersonate customer service representatives on social media to persuade users to disclose personal information or install malicious software.
How to protect yourself
- Avoid clicking links in messages. Instead, type the website address directly into your browser.
- Keep your browser up to date.
- Never download or install software sent via e-mail or text message.
- Never share personal or confidential information.
Be especially cautious of messages asking you to disclose or confirm personal information, account details, or passwords. Magenta Pay will never ask for your passwords by phone, e-mail, or any other communication channel.
Even if a message appears genuine, contact the company directly using a trusted phone number or official website to verify its authenticity before responding.
Be particularly wary of messages creating a false sense of urgency, such as claiming your account will be closed unless you act immediately. Cybercriminals use urgency to pressure you into making decisions without taking time to think.