We often imagine scams are easy to spot. Back in the day, many were. June’s tip is around the newest scam: fake summer invites.
The Problem: Fake Summer Invitations
Scams aren't as obvious as they used to be. Cybercriminals are capitalizing on summer vibes - weddings, graduations, and barbecues - by sending fake event invitations that look exactly like they are from popular platforms (like Evite or Paperless Post) or even people you know.
- The Bait: An unexpected invitation sparks your curiosity or excitement.
- The Trap: You click the link to see who invited you.
- The Damage: Instead of party details, you land on a spoofed site designed to steal your passwords, credit card info, or personal data.
The Solution: Verify Before You RSVP
Don't let curiosity override your caution. You can disarm the trap with one simple habit: Pause and pivot.
- Don't click the link: If an invite arrives out of the blue, resist the urge to click immediately.
- Check a different channel: Reach out to the sender directly via a separate text, phone call, or a fresh email chain to confirm they actually sent it.
- Apply it everywhere: Use this same "verify first" rule for unexpected package notifications or shared documents.
Want to dive deeper? Read the full New York Times article on invitation phishing scams to see how these tactics work.