Lmst

🔐 Secure, surveillance-free email isn’t just about protecting your data, it’s about safeguarding your right to speak freely. Democracy can’t thrive when our conversations aren’t private.

Privacy isn’t just a right - it’s the foundation of democracy. 🏛️

#PrivacyMatters #FreeSpeech #Democracy #SecureEmail

Dictionary page with definition of the word democracy

I was talking today to a doctor in the #healthcare center in #Tampere. They asked for a document in paper. When I asked about mailing it then they told me that they are not allowed to use email.
They only use #secureemail, a service where you open the message via a third party website. It's crazy to me that they are not allowed to send emails but allowed to use a third party that provides the same Transport level encryption that email does too.
But at the same time no to end to end encryption.

Most email-processing AI writing tools process emails on their externally held servers, where private content could be used for training or storage.

NeuroMail offers AI-powered email rewriting inside a secure, encrypted ecosystem-so your messages stay yours.
Read the full blog to explore the future of private AI email writing.👉

https://neuronus.net/en/blog/ai-without-big-brother-the-future-of-private-ai-email-writing

#PrivateAI #AIEmail #EmailPrivacy #SecureEmail #NeuroMail #DataOwnership #PrivacyTech #Neuronus

What email solution would you recommend for non-technical users? Requirements: strong security, not hosted on a US-based cloud, support for email aliases, and ideally custom domains. A one-stop solution is preferred, but I’m open to a mix of tools. Open-source is a strong preference, though usability matters. I’m open to pragmatic tradeoffs, as long as the solution supports easy migration and exit.

#PrivacyTech #SecureEmail #Usability #DataPortability

Decided to switch to @Tutanota today after trying a few different services out.

The app feels the most responsive out of the ones i tried and the subscription doesn't cost much either, and it's nice to support them financially to help further development. #tutamail #tuta #tutanota #secureemail

Atomic Mail reaches 1M users in 10 months, offering end-to-end encrypted email with privacy-first design and innovative security features across multiple platforms #PrivacyTech #SecureEmail

@tsyum I guess I really made a good decision by switching to @Tutanota

#Tuta #TutaMail #SecureEmail

EASY way to de-Google your Email & Passwords (Tutorial)

https://apertatube.net/w/jVgrqUvtr9mFk2RkXEpppS

Email is NOT as Private as you Think

https://apertatube.net/w/8wJMfjVqikGaRAF8kYhUJz

🇳🇱 Recognized as a Dutch secure email alternative by Dutch Cloud Community.

The landscape is shifting, companies & individuals are asking harder questions about data sovereignty.

This recognition shows people are discovering there ARE European alternatives to Big Tech.

Soverin offers privacy-first email:
✉️ No tracking or ads
🇪🇺 Data stays in Europe
💰 Pay with money, not data

👉 https://dutch-alternatives.nl/?item=providers--collaboration-email-providers--soverin#providers--collaboration-email-providers

#SecureEmail #Privacy #DigitalSovereignty #DutchTech #EmailSecurity

Too many emails slowing you down? 📩⚡

NeuroMail is an AI email app that organizes, adapts, and secures your inbox — boosting productivity while keeping your conversations safe.

Take back control of your inbox today with smarter email management.

#AIEmail #InboxZero #EmailProductivity #SmartInbox #SecureEmail #AITools #WorkSmarter #ProductivityApps #Neuronus

STOP using your email for banking logins

https://apertatube.net/w/fzEC7UkaKA7gFsczkuStas

Your inbox should be as private as your practice. We had the privilege to chat with Matthias Baenz, a seasoned tax lawyer about why secure communication 🔐 Read the full story: tuta.com/blog/intervi... #Tuta #LegalTech #PrivacyFirst #SecureEmail #ClientConfidentiality

“Encrypted communication is no...

Your inbox should be as private as your practice.

We had the privilege to chat with Matthias Baenz, a seasoned tax lawyer about why secure communication is non-negotiable in the legal field, and why he chose Tuta to protect his clients’ confidentiality.

🔐 Read the full story: https://tuta.com/blog/interview-why-tax-lawyer-chose-tuta-for-confidential-communication

#Tuta #LegalTech #PrivacyFirst #SecureEmail #ClientConfidentiality

Image of Matthias Baenz with a quote, "All lawyers have a special
duty to ensure that the
client is not put at risk to data leaks, unintentional access, or publication of data.This can only be ensured through genuine, encrypted communication like Tuta Mail.”

🔥 We’re live on Product Hunt!
[@fuck.it] is now open for early supporters - the most rebellious email service in cyberspace. No ads. No tracking. Just pure, encrypted attitude.
If you believe the internet needs more boldness and less bullshit, show us some love on Product Hunt ❤️
👉 https://www.producthunt.com/products/fuck-it...
Every upvote counts. Let’s make some noise.
#fuckit #producthunt #emailwithattitude #privacyfirst #secureemail

https://www.androidauthority.com/proton-mail-vs-gmail-privacy-features-3555980/ these are valid points @protonprivacy. Android app needs to be closer to iOS and web counterparts. It's years behind! On the other hand, maybe you can add a comment to the privacy remarks. Kindest regards #privacy #secureemail #android

Need a fast & anonymous temporary email to protect your privacy online? 🌐
Try https://tempuse.email/ – no sign-up, no tracking, no hassle. 📨

✅ Protect your inbox from spam
✅ Ideal for signups, verifications & one-time use
✅ Blazing fast & private access
✅ Works instantly on all devices

#TempMail #DisposableEmail #AnonymousEmail #PrivacyTools #SecureEmail #EmailVerification #OneTimeEmail #InboxProtection #NoSpam #DataPrivacy

Check out Tuta secure email! 🔒 TechRadar's review highlights its top-tier security, straightforward interface, and great transparency. A fantastic and affordable option for privacy-conscious users! 👍 #secureemail #privacy #Tuta
https://www.techradar.com/reviews/tutanota-secure-email #newz

Mastering Cybersecurity: How to Protect Yourself from Phishing and Smishing Scams

1,428 words, 8 minutes read time.

Free Download: Smishing Scam Quick Reference Guide

Cybersecurity is more important than ever in today’s digital world. As technology continues to evolve, so do the methods cybercriminals use to exploit unsuspecting individuals. One of the most prevalent and dangerous types of cyber attack is phishing—and a particularly sneaky variation, smishing, which targets you via text messages. These scams can lead to significant personal and financial loss, but understanding how they work and knowing how to protect yourself is key to staying safe online.

In this post, we’ll walk through the basics of phishing and smishing, how these scams work, and most importantly, how you can safeguard yourself from falling victim to these deceptive attacks.

1. Understanding Cybersecurity and Why It Matters

Before diving into phishing and smishing scams, it’s essential to grasp the broader concept of cybersecurity. At its core, cybersecurity is the practice of protecting your personal, financial, and sensitive information from cybercriminals, hackers, and malicious software. The goal is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your data, meaning your information should only be accessed by those who are authorized, and it should be kept secure from tampering or loss.

As our world becomes increasingly digital, the threats to our online security also grow. Cybercriminals use a variety of techniques to steal data, gain access to accounts, and commit fraud. Phishing and smishing are two of the most common, and they can have devastating consequences if you’re not vigilant.

2. What is Phishing and Smishing?

Phishing

Phishing is a type of cyber attack where scammers send fraudulent messages—typically through email—that appear to be from a legitimate organization, like your bank, the government, or a trusted online retailer. These messages often include links that lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal information. The emails may claim that you need to update your account information, resolve a billing issue, or confirm a transaction. The goal? To trick you into entering your username, password, or credit card number.

Smishing

Smishing is the SMS (text message) version of phishing. In this scam, cybercriminals send text messages that appear to come from legitimate sources, such as government agencies, toll services, or postal delivery companies. The message will typically inform you of an “unpaid invoice” or a “fee” that requires immediate attention. You’re then encouraged to click on a link that takes you to a fake website, where you may be asked to enter sensitive information.

Both phishing and smishing exploit the same tactics: impersonating a trusted entity, creating a sense of urgency, and directing you to a fake website or form to steal your personal information.

3. How Phishing and Smishing Scams Work

While phishing and smishing may seem like sophisticated attacks, their methods are relatively simple, yet highly effective. Here’s how they typically unfold:

Step 1: You Receive a Message

A phishing or smishing scam begins with a message that appears to come from a familiar, trustworthy source. The email or text might look legitimate because it includes logos, official language, and even your name or other personal details. You might receive a notification claiming there is an unpaid toll fee, an overdue invoice, or a problem with your bank account.

Step 2: You’re Asked to Click on a Link

The message will often contain a link that prompts you to click. This is where the scam turns dangerous. In a phishing email, the link will take you to a fake website that looks nearly identical to a legitimate one. In a smishing text, clicking the link will lead you to a fraudulent page designed to capture your personal information.

Step 3: You Enter Personal Information

If you fall for the scam, you’ll be prompted to enter sensitive data such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or personal identification numbers (PINs). The criminals behind these attacks use this information for identity theft, financial fraud, or selling your data on the dark web.

Step 4: The Scamsters Profit

Once the scammers have your information, they can use it to make unauthorized purchases, steal your identity, or access your financial accounts. In the case of smishing, your phone number might be sold to other cybercriminals, or they may use it to perpetrate additional scams.

4. Red Flags to Look Out For

Phishing and smishing attacks can be incredibly convincing, but there are several warning signs you can look for to help you identify a scam. Here are a few common red flags to watch out for:

Urgency or Threats: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming that you must act immediately to avoid penalties or lose access to your account.
Suspicious Links: Always hover over a link to see where it leads. Scammers often use slightly misspelled URLs or obscure domains that look similar to the legitimate website’s domain but are not quite right.
Generic Greetings: A legitimate organization will address you by name, whereas scammers may use generic greetings like “Dear Customer” or “Dear User.”
Unusual Requests: Be wary of requests to enter personal or financial information via email or text message. Legitimate companies usually don’t ask for sensitive data this way.

5. How to Protect Yourself from Phishing and Smishing Scams

Protecting yourself from these types of attacks requires vigilance, awareness, and adopting a few simple but effective practices. Here’s what you can do:

a. Never Click on Links in Unsolicited Messages

Whether the message comes by email or text, avoid clicking on any links from unknown or suspicious sources. If you think the message might be legitimate, go directly to the official website or app by typing the URL into your browser.

b. Check the Sender’s Email Address or Phone Number

Scammers often use email addresses or phone numbers that look similar to legitimate ones but have small differences. Verify the sender’s details before responding or taking any action.

c. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Even if a scammer manages to steal your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second factor of authentication, usually a temporary code sent to your phone or email.

d. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Always use strong passwords that are difficult to guess and unique for each of your online accounts. Password managers can help you generate and store complex passwords securely.

e. Regularly Update Your Software

Keep your operating system, browsers, and apps up to date. Software updates often include important security patches that protect against new vulnerabilities.

f. Educate Yourself and Stay Informed

Stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity trends and learn about common scams. Knowledge is one of your best defenses against phishing and smishing attacks.

6. What to Do if You’ve Fallen for a Phishing or Smishing Scam

If you’ve clicked on a suspicious link or entered sensitive information, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:

Immediately change your passwords for any affected accounts, especially your bank or email accounts.
Contact your bank or credit card company if you suspect financial fraud, and monitor your accounts for any unauthorized transactions.
Report the scam to your local authorities or relevant organizations, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your country’s cybersecurity agency.
Run a full antivirus scan on your devices to check for malware or malicious software that may have been installed.

7. Conclusion: Stay Safe and Stay Informed

Phishing and smishing are dangerous but preventable threats. By staying informed, being cautious with your personal information, and using good cybersecurity practices, you can protect yourself from these types of scams.

Remember, always verify any unsolicited messages before taking action. Never let urgency cloud your judgment, and never share sensitive information through email or text messages unless you are 100% sure the source is legitimate.

For more tips on how to protect your digital life, subscribe to our newsletter and stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity advice. Your safety online is only a few simple steps away.

D. Bryan King

Sources

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.