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Think Before You Click: How to Spot Dangerous Email Links

(Especially for older adults or anyone new to the digital world)

Digital Hygiene Series | Reading time: ~4 minutes

Phishing

Email scams are more common than ever, and they’re getting harder to spot. Some of the people most at risk are those who didn’t grow up with this technology—like aging parents, grandparents, or anyone just trying to keep up with today’s digital pace.

If that sounds like you or someone you care about, this article will help you understand what to watch for, what to avoid, and how to stay safe.

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What’s the Danger in Email?

Scam emails—also called phishing emails—try to trick you into clicking a fake link or downloading a harmful file. They might pretend to be:
  • Your bank
  • A company like Amazon or Netflix
  • A delivery service (UPS, FedEx)
  • Even a family member in need
Once you click, it may steal your password, install a virus, or trick you into entering personal information.

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How to Spot a Dangerous Email

Here are simple rules to follow every time you check your inbox:

Double-Check the Sender

  • Hover over the sender’s name or tap it to see the full email address.
  • If it looks strange (like amazon@weird-site.ru), it’s not safe.
  • Watch out for domain name tricks like @goog1e.com (that's a one and not the letter 'l')

Look Before You Click

  • On a computer: hover your mouse over the link.
  • On a phone: press and hold the link (but don’t tap it).
  • If the link doesn’t match the real company’s website, don’t click.

Watch for Bad Grammar or Spelling

Scam emails often have:
  • Typos or misspelled words
  • Capital letters in odd places
  • Strange formatting
These are red flags.

Don’t Be Pressured

If an email says things like:
  • “Your account is locked!”
  • “You must act now!”
  • “Confirm your identity immediately”
…it’s probably fake. Companies don’t use fear to get your attention.

Skip the Attachments

If you weren’t expecting a file—even from someone you know—don’t open it. Text or call the person to double-check it’s real.

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Want to Help a Loved One Understand This?

Here’s how to start the conversation:
  • “Can we take 10 minutes to review email safety together?”
  • “I read this article and thought of you.”
  • “Let’s check your email settings together—just in case.”
This isn’t about being “bad with technology.” It’s about being smart with your attention.

Need Ongoing Support? We’ve Got You.

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  • Stay safe online with less stress
  • Get help from real people—not robots
  • Understand what’s happening with easy-to-follow steps
You can buy a subscription for yourself or someone you love.

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