Phishing Email Examples: How to Spot and Avoid Common Scams

Phishing emails are one of the most common cyber threats, targeting millions of people every day. They can look legitimate and are often cleverly disguised, making it crucial to know how to identify them. In this guide, we’ll walk through real examples of phishing emails, explain the tactics used, and give you the tools you need to stay safe.

Key Takeaways

1. Phishing emails often use fear, urgency, or excitement to manipulate you into acting without thinking.
2. Always double-check the sender’s email address and hover over links before clicking. If something feels off, trust your instincts.
3. Never download unexpected attachments or share personal information through email. Verify with the organization using official contact details.
4. Stay informed about different types of phishing tactics to better recognize them when they land in your inbox.

What Makes Phishing Emails So Effective?

Phishing emails work because they tap into our emotions. Fear (“Your account has been compromised!”), urgency (“Act now!”), or excitement (“You’ve won a prize!”) make us act quickly without thinking. Scammers are experts at mimicking the look and feel of legitimate emails, right down to logos, branding, and professional-sounding language.

According to a recent report, over 90% of cyberattacks start with a phishing email. This statistic underscores the importance of being vigilant and knowing how to recognize these scams.

Common Phishing Email Examples and How They Work

Let’s break down some real-world examples and the tactics used by scammers.

1. Classic “Your Account Has Been Compromised” Email

One of the most popular phishing tactics involves sending fake security alerts. These emails claim there’s been suspicious activity on your account.

Subject: URGENT: Suspicious Login Attempt Detected

Dear [Your Name],

We’ve noticed unusual activity on your [Bank Name] account. To protect your account, we’ve temporarily suspended access. Please click the link below to verify your information and restore access:

[Verify Account]

Thank you for your immediate attention.

Sincerely,  
The [Bank Name] Security Team

Red Flags:

• The sender’s email address might be slightly altered, like security@bnak.com instead of bank.com.
• There’s a sense of urgency, pushing you to act quickly.
• Hovering over the link reveals a suspicious URL that doesn’t match the bank’s official site.

What to Do: Never click on links in emails like this. Go directly to your bank’s website or call their customer service using the official number.

2. “Payment Issue” Phishing Email

These scams trick you into giving away your credit card details by claiming there’s a problem with a payment.

Subject: Payment Failed - Immediate Action Required

Hello,

We couldn’t process your recent payment for your [Streaming Service] subscription. Please update your payment information to avoid service interruption.

[Update Payment Details]

Thank you,  
The [Streaming Service] Team

Red Flags:

• The greeting is generic, like “Hello” instead of using your name.
• The link leads to a suspicious website when you hover over it.
• A strong sense of urgency, warning that your account will be suspended.

What to Do: Log in to your account through the service’s official website, not through any links provided in the email.

3. Fake “Invoice Attached” Email

Businesses are often targeted with fake invoice emails that contain malware or phishing links.

Subject: Invoice #78945 - Due Today

Dear [Employee Name],

Please find attached the invoice for our recent services. Note that payment is due immediately.

[Download Invoice]

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Regards,  
[Fake Company Name] Billing Department

Red Flags:

• Unsolicited attachments, especially with file extensions like .exe or .zip.
• The email doesn’t reference any specific services or contracts.
• Language that pressures you into quick action.

What to Do: If you’re not expecting an invoice, don’t download the attachment. Verify with the sender through official channels.

4. “You’ve Won a Prize” Scam Email

Everyone loves winning, but when it’s too good to be true, it probably is.

Subject: Congratulations! You’ve Won a $1,000 Gift Card!

Dear [Your Name],

You have been selected as the winner of a $1,000 gift card from [Popular Retailer]! To claim your prize, click the link below and complete a short survey.

[Claim Your Prize]

Act fast—this offer expires in 24 hours!

Best,  
The [Retailer] Rewards Team

Red Flags:

• An unexpected prize for a contest you didn’t enter.
• A link leading to a site asking for personal or financial information.
• An email address that doesn’t match the retailer’s official domain.

What to Do: If you didn’t enter a contest, it’s likely a scam. Never click on the link or share any details.

5. “Unusual Login Attempt” Security Alert

These emails pretend to be from accounts like Google, Facebook, or Microsoft, warning you of unauthorized access.

Subject: Unusual Login Attempt Detected

Hi [Your Name],

We noticed a login attempt from an unrecognized device. If this wasn’t you, please secure your account by clicking the link below:

[Secure My Account]

If you recognize this activity, no further action is needed.

Thanks,  
The [Service] Security Team

Red Flags:

• The sender’s domain may not be from the official service.
• The email creates fear by implying your account is compromised.
• The link leads to a fake login page that looks identical to the real one.

What to Do: Don’t click the link. Log in to your account directly from the official website to check for suspicious activity.

6. “Tech Support” Scam Email

Scammers may pose as tech support from companies like Microsoft or Apple, claiming your computer is infected.

Subject: Critical Security Warning from Microsoft

Dear User,

We have detected malware on your device. Immediate action is required to prevent data loss. Please contact Microsoft Support at [Fake Number] or click the link below for assistance:

[Get Support]

Regards,  
Microsoft Security Team

Red Flags:

• The email urges you to act immediately, claiming your device is at risk.
• A phone number or link is provided that leads to scammers who may ask for remote access to your computer.

What to Do: Never call the number or click the link. Visit the official Microsoft or Apple support website if you have concerns.

7. “CEO Fraud” or Business Email Compromise (BEC)

These emails target employees, pretending to be from the CEO or another executive, often requesting urgent wire transfers or sensitive information.

Subject: Urgent Wire Transfer Needed

Hi [Employee Name],

I’m currently in a meeting and need you to process a wire transfer immediately. Please send $50,000 to the following account: [Scammer’s Account Details]. I’ll explain more later.

Thank you,  
[CEO’s Name]

Red Flags:

• Unusual or urgent financial requests.
• Language that discourages you from asking questions or verifying details.
• The “reply-to” email address might differ from the real one.

What to Do: Always verify any financial request in person or through a known phone number.

How to Stay Safe from Phishing Emails

1. Hover Over Links: Always check where a link is taking you before clicking.
2. Verify the Sender: If something seems off, reach out to the company or person using official contact information.
3. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): An added layer of security can prevent unauthorized access.
4. Be Cautious with Attachments: Don’t download attachments from unknown or suspicious sources.
5. Keep Your Software Updated: Regular updates can protect you from known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Phishing emails are constantly evolving, but the tactics remain largely the same: they play on your emotions and urgency. By familiarising yourself with common phishing scenarios and staying vigilant, you can avoid falling victim to these scams. If you have a story about a phishing email you’ve received or tips on staying safe, share it below! Your experience could help someone else.