Articles by the cybersecurity community

Guest Post - Vaishnavi Shimpi - let's stop phishing


Thanks to Vaishnavi for this great reminder about phishing!



I got a call the other day
I won a lottery, such a lucky day.
They sounded very flattering
But I didn’t recollect ever participating.
You are our loyal customer, this is a special one,
Amongst many nationwide, you are the 'chosen one'!
Send us your bank details,
So that we can 'transfer' the money
We also need your 'verification'.
And they asked me for my personal history...
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My bank account is blocked they said.
I panicked, and asked 'why'?
Some mischievous activity was found
We'll help you, you just follow by.
We need some 'verification' so,
Tell us your account number and password.
You have provided the correct information,
Now we'll give your account a resurrection...
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I got an SMS the other day
This is 'urgent' it did say,
It's regarding your parcel delivery,
'Act now' or it'll be on it's return journey.
Your 'part' payment is still pending
If you don't pay now, it'll be marked for cancelling.
I 'panicked' and clicked on the link
It took me to a portal that looked all genuine.
I didn't bother to check the URL
Didn't notice something was a bit unusual.
I gave away my bank details, not realising
it was actually someone 'phishing'.
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Beware of all these scenarios
They are more than common,
This'll not happen to me
Is simply a disillusion.
There are many out there,
Who are on your lookout,
They mostly sound urgent or authoritative,
It is best to be safe and stay out.
These days it is good to stay suspicious
It's a good way to keep away those mostly dubious.

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BIO




Vaishnavi Shimpi
A traveller, poet, culture enthusiast, mum, software professional and cyber security and data privacy specialist. Having seen close family members falling prey to phishing attacks, Vaishnavi realised the lack and importance of cyber-security literacy amongst the older and younger generation alike. She has found a simplistic and quick way to spread security awareness through poems.
Often, you’d find her exploring places far and near, gaining new perspectives on people and cultures, currently calling beautiful Australia her home. An adventure and a nature loving person, she loves motorbiking trips with her husband. She also believes in giving back to the society and is involved in educating young school and college students in India.