Phishing Scam

Phishing is a type of cyberattack that uses fraudulent emails, text messages, phone calls or websites to trick people into sharing sensitive data, downloading malware or otherwise exposing themselves to cybercrime. Phishing attacks are a form of social engineering. Unlike other cyberattacks that directly target networks and resources, social engineering attacks use human error, fake stories and pressure tactics to manipulate victims into unintentionally harming themselves or their organizations.

Phishing attacks use deceptive messages to trick people into revealing sensitive information or installing malware. Common types include bulk email phishing, where scammers send fake emails impersonating trusted brands to steal login details or deliver malware; spear phishing, which targets specific individuals like finance managers using personalized details to appear credible; and business email compromise (BEC), where attackers impersonate executives or employees to steal money or data through fake fund transfers or invoices. Other variants include smishing, which uses fraudulent text messages from supposed banks or delivery services to lure victims into sharing personal or financial information.

BOOM has debunked multiple viral scams circulating online, including a false claim that Jet Airways is offering two free tickets to every family to celebrate its 25th anniversary. The airline has clarified that the link being circulated is fake. In another case, BOOM fact-checked the fake Facebook post that used a photo of Anant Ambani from a news interview along with a clickbait headline falsely claiming he made controversial remarks. BOOM found that the post is a scam, with the image misused to trick users into clicking the link and defrauding them of money.