Don’t Get Hooked: 4 Ways for Businesses to Avoid Phishing Scams

The ability to communicate online has changed how we run a business, but it can also open us up to a world of cybercriminals like the ones involved in phishing scams. As a Fort Wayne area business owner, it’s vital to avoid these scams to protect your employees, customers, and data from being breached. The cybersecurity pros at LANKEY I.T. are here to guide you through recognizing and managing email and phone phishing scams. Let’s take a look at how you can prevent them.

Recognizing Phishing Vs. Legitimate Communication

Phishing scams are a form of social engineering where scammers impersonate legitimate entities to trick you into providing confidential information. They usually communicate through a phone call or email to scam you out of money or gain access to sensitive business data.

Recognizing the signs of a scam is the first step toward protection. Legitimate businesses contacting you via email or phone will rarely, if ever, ask for sensitive information directly. Be wary of unsolicited requests for personal or business data. Also, look out for suspicious email addresses, links, and spelling errors.

Protect Your Business Against Phishing

Now that we can spot a phishing scam, here are measures you can take to protect your business.

1. Secure Your Digital Space

The first step to defend against phishing scammers is to solidify your cybersecurity. Make sure your computers are running the latest security software. Also, let them update automatically so they can address threats effectively.

2. Embrace Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds extra layers of security, making it challenging for attackers to breach your accounts even if they have your credentials. This triple-layered safeguard involves something you know (like a password), something you have (like a mobile device for texts or emails), and something you are (like your fingerprint or facial recognition).

3. Back up Your Data

Backing up your data in the cloud and on external hard drives ensures that even in a worst-case scenario, your business can recover quickly without losing its critical data. This is also helpful when your business faces unforeseen circumstances like a natural disaster or technology issues.

4. Find the Right Cybersecurity Partner

Whether your business is in Fort Wayne, Auburn, Kendallville, Huntington, or the Columbia City area, LANKEY I.T. is your trusted partner in PC support, cybersecurity, and data backup and recovery. We understand that small businesses are the backbone of our community. That’s why we’re committed to protecting your interests with our managed IT services.

By arming yourself with knowledge and partnering with experts like LANKEY I.T., you can confidently navigate the complexities of the digital age. Let us help you keep the scammers at bay. Contact LANKEY I.T. at (260) 800-3850 or request a consultation online today!


“How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams,” Federal Trade Commission, published Sept. 2022, accessed Aug. 20, 2024. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams.