Is that message legit?
Have you ever received an email or text that seems to be a little "off?" It appears to come from a valid source, but it asks you to share wiring instructions or a password - which makes you hesitate.

Phishing emails and texts ask you to do unusual things, like sharing confidential or financial information. Often they appear to be valid messages from a colleague, a business or an organization like *VBR.

There are steps you can take to protect your safety and your business.

The infographic below highlights five ways you can determine if an email is legit. These rules also apply to suspicious text messages (See sample text below).

Common Phishing Tactics:
  • Ask you to send money to an individual.
  • Ask that you purchase gift cards.
  • Ask for donations on behalf of individuals.
  • Ask you to reveal log on information or passwords.

*Please note the VBR will not send emails asking for confidential or financial information. We will occasionally promote the VBR Foundation, but we do not solicit for donations to individuals.
Beware of suspicious texts
We've received reports of VBR members receiving suspicious text messages.

Similar to spoofed emails, these texts appear to be from a trusted source. Make a note of unknown phone numbers, bad grammar, unusual greetings, and the sense of urgency being conveyed by the scammer.