Phishing is one of the most widespread cyberattacks. And also one of the most effective: every day, thousands of people click on a fake link, share their login credentials, or download malware... without even realizing it.
The good news is that it's entirely possible to protect yourself effectively from phishing, without spending a penny. You just need to be aware of the best practices and apply them daily.
1. Learn to recognize phishing attempts
The first line of defense against phishing is you. And it starts with being a little observation.
Here are some typical signs of a fraudulent message:
- A strange or misspelled email address
- An urgent tone: "Your account will be suspended", "Immediate action required"
- ● A link to click that leads to a suspicious site
- An unexpected attachment
- ● Spelling or formatting errors
Tip: hover your mouse over the link without clicking. You'll see the real URL. If it doesn't match the official site, run away.
2. Always verify the sender… and the context
Receiving an email from a service you don't use? An invoice from a company you don't know? A message from a "friend" with a strange tone?
In 90% of cases, it’s phishing.
Ask yourself these simple questions:
- Was I expecting this message?
- Is the sender’s address legitimate?
- Is the message's tone consistent with the company or the person?
When in doubt, don't click on anything. Go directly to the official website concerned, or contact the sender through another channel.
3. Enable two-factor authentication (MFA)
Even if you fall into the trap of a fake site, it's not too late. The best defense to prevent your accounts from being compromised is two-factor authentication.
For free, you can enable it on:
- Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo
- Social networks (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
- E-commerce or online service sites
It adds an additional verification: a code by SMS or via an app like Google Authenticator.
. A hacker who only has your password won't be able to go further.
4. Update your devices
An updated system = fewer exploitable vulnerabilities.
Whether it's your computer, phone, or even your browser, remember to:
- ● Install updates as soon as they're available
- ● Use antivirus software (even free)
- ● Delete applications you no longer use
Updates often include invisible but essential security patches.
5. Use filtering DNS against malicious sites
A lesser-known but very effective trick: change your internet box's DNS to use a service that automatically blocks phishing sites.
For example, DNS4EU is a free European solution that you can easily configure at home.
Ariovis has written clear guides, adapted to each operator:
- Install DNS4EU on a Freebox
- Install DNS4EU on a SFR
- Install DNS4EU on a Bbox
- Install DNS4EU on a Livebox
With this configuration, even if you accidentally click on a fraudulent link, the site will be automatically blocked.
In summary: you can act right now
Protecting yourself from phishing requires neither money nor expertise, just paying a little attention and a few easy settings:
- Observe suspicious signs
- Verify senders and URLs
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Update your devices
- Filter malicious sites via your DNS
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