Spotting Phishing Emails

  1. Check the Sender's Email Address: Pay close attention to the sender's email address. While phishing emails may attempt to mimic our email domain, dat.com, they often contain subtle discrepancies or irregularities upon closer inspection. Verify the authenticity of the sender's address before taking any further action. Please visit our fraud alert dashboard to view examples of phishing email addresses
  2. Watch for Suspicious Requests or Content: Phishing emails typically contain requests for sensitive information or prompt recipients to take urgent actions. Be cautious of emails requesting personal data, login credentials, or financial details.
    Screenshot showing a phishing email using false urgency tactic
  3. Do not click on or download embedded links and attachments::  Hover your cursor over any hyperlinks embedded within the email to inspect the destination URL. Phishing emails often contain malicious links that redirect users to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.

Reporting the Phishing Email to DAT

To ensure DAT receives your report, do not forward the phishing email directly, as it may be blocked by firewalls. Instead, you'll need to provide a full screenshot of the email, including the email's header, logos, branding, and content. Here's how to capture this information:

  1. Open the Email: Navigate to the phishing email but do not click on any links or download attachments. Make sure the complete email header is visible. This may require clicking on an option like "View Details" or "Show Original" depending on your email client.
  2. Capture the Screenshot:
    • Windows: Press PrtScn to capture the entire screen, or Alt + PrtScn to capture only the active window. Then paste (Ctrl + V) into the email you will send to DAT.
    • MacOS: Press Shift + Command + 4 to select an area for the screenshot, which will be saved automatically to your desktop.
    • Mobile Devices: Use the device-specific method to capture the screen (usually pressing the power and volume down buttons simultaneously). For more instructions, please click here.
  3. Sending Your Report: 
    • Compose an Email: Open your email client and create a new message.
    • Recipient: Address it to compliance@dat.com.
    • Subject: Use "Phishing" as the subject.
    • Attach the Screenshot: Click the attach file icon (usually a paperclip), find the screenshot file, select it, and attach it to the email.

DAT will then take the necessary steps to report the email through our legal team to the appropriate channels and update our fraud protection website with the ongoing trend.

Stay Informed

To protect yourself and stay informed about the latest fraud trends, DAT encourages you to visit our fraud protection website at dat.com/fraud-protection. Here, you'll find valuable resources and updates to help safeguard your information.