By Kenneth Oboh

Phishing attacks, one of the most widespread forms of cybercrime, continue to pose a significant threat to individuals and organizations. Designed to steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal details, these scams are growing increasingly sophisticated. Zechariah Akinpelu, a global cybersecurity expert and Chief Information Security Officer at Unity Bank, has outlined practical steps to help people stay protected.

In a recent discussion, Zechariah stressed the importance of vigilance and awareness as the first line of defense against phishing attacks. “Most phishing attempts succeed because people overlook subtle warning signs,” he noted. For instance, scammers often use email addresses that closely mimic legitimate ones, like replacing “paypal” with “paypa1.” He advised always double-checking sender information and avoiding links or attachments from unknown sources.

Zechariah also highlighted the importance of using strong, unique passwords for online accounts. He warned against reusing passwords across multiple platforms, as this can make it easier for hackers to breach multiple accounts. Additionally, he encouraged enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. “With 2FA, even if someone has your password, they can’t access your account without an additional verification step,” he explained.

Phishing scams frequently use urgency to create panic, tricking victims into revealing sensitive information. Zechariah urged people to remain calm when confronted with messages claiming their accounts are at risk. “Legitimate companies won’t ask for personal information or demand immediate action through email or text,” he said.

He also emphasized the need to keep software and security tools up to date. Outdated systems are more vulnerable to cyberattacks, and regular updates can close these gaps.

Zechariah, who has lectured at global cybersecurity conferences such as BlackHat and GITEX, noted that while the digital age offers countless opportunities, it also comes with risks. “We must take responsibility for securing our personal information. Awareness and proactive measures can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to phishing attacks,” he stated.

With cyber threats on the rise, experts like Zechariah continue to play a vital role in educating individuals and organizations on how to navigate and secure the digital landscape.