Phishing is a method used by hackers to steal sensitive data such as passwords, credit or debit card information, and financial data. Hackers begin the process by shooting spoof emails or chats to their target users. Some of the common methods used for phishing are as follows:

●  Inserting a link in the email and sending it through an anonymous email address
●  Sending a website link from a renowned website
●  Installing malicious software through emails to gather the personal information of the user

Ways to avoid phishing:-
Being aware of scams
Hackers and other data thieves design new phishing scams every day.

Avoid opening emails from unknown sources
Emails with links asking to click on them are more common ways of phishing. Avoid clicking on emails from unknown sources in order to avoid phishing.
Adding anti-phishing option on the toolbar
The toolbars on the browsers can be updated by adding an anti-phishing option, which enables the user to find whether a website is malicious. This helps the user to protect themselves from opening and entering malicious websites.

Check for the security of the online websites
Before buying products online, the security of the websites should be checked. Secured websites contain “https:” before them and a closed lock symbol which ensures the security of any data entered on the website.

Check online bank accounts regularly
Online accounts are the most vulnerable ones on the internet. So, the phishing scams related to the online accounts can be avoided by regularly checking the online accounts. Changing the passwords frequently also help in protecting the sensitive data.

Update your browser
Another easy way to avoid phishing is by updating the browsers whenever a new version is available. Some people ignore notifications and do not update their browser on a regular basis. This gives a chance for the hackers to steal the private data through new phishing scams and methods.

Installing a firewall
Installing a firewall is another way to avoid phishing scams and hacking. A firewall on the desktop or laptop along with a network firewall can help in protecting the sensitive data.

Avoiding clicking on the popup windows
Pop-up windows are another way of phishing scams where a user is lured to click the cancel button on the window. Users should be careful as even clicking the cancel button can lead to phishing. It is better to close the window or install ad blocker software to avoid such pop-up windows.

Avoid sharing sensitive information online
Safeguarding personal information such bank information is very important. Sensitive information should never be shared with strangers or entered on unknown websites.

Install an antivirus software
Installing an antivirus software on laptops, desktops, smartphones etc. is an easier way to avoid phishing scams. However, this antivirus software has to be regularly updated to avoid new phishing scams. Antivirus software usually comes with anti-spyware, Anti-theft etc., which help in protecting the sensitive information of the user.
Following a single method may not give the expected results or completely safeguard against phishing scams. Thus, it is best to follow all the aforementioned steps in order to safeguard yourself from any phishing scams. Using a combination of an antivirus software and a firewall software can go a long way in protecting your system from hackers.
There are several antivirus software and firewalls available that are target-specific issues. Some of the antivirus software and firewalls can be used for personal use, while there are many others designed for organizations. There is also antivirus software designed for Internet of Things applications. Thus, it is necessary to chart down your requirement to be sure of investing in the best antivirus software.