How to Tell if an Email Is Genuine

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Most of us receive dozens of emails every week. Some are from friends or family, while others come from banks, retailers, courier companies, or government agencies. Unfortunately, scammers know this too, and they’re becoming increasingly skilled at creating emails that look convincing.

Before clicking anything, take a moment to look at the sender. The display name might look familiar, but the actual email address can tell a different story. If it contains random letters, unusual spellings, or doesn’t match the organisation it claims to represent, treat it with caution.

Next, consider the tone of the message. Scam emails often try to create a sense of urgency. They might claim your account has been suspended, a payment has failed, or a parcel can’t be delivered unless you act immediately. Their goal is to make you react before you’ve had time to think.

Be wary of links and attachments, especially if you weren’t expecting them. Instead of clicking a link in the email, open your web browser and visit the company’s official website yourself. If you’re unsure whether a message is genuine, contact the organisation using a phone number or email address you know is legitimate.

Spelling and grammar have improved in many scam emails, so mistakes are no longer a reliable warning sign. Instead, look for requests that seem unusual. A reputable organisation won’t ask you to send passwords, banking details, or verification codes by email.

If you accidentally open a suspicious email, don’t panic. Simply opening it is usually not enough to cause harm. The greater risk comes from clicking links, downloading attachments, or entering personal information. If you think you’ve shared sensitive details, contact your bank or the relevant organisation as soon as possible.

A healthy dose of scepticism is one of the best online safety tools you can have. Taking an extra minute to check an email before responding can help protect your personal information and give you greater confidence every time a new message arrives.