‘Outlook Security Issue’ Phishing Scam

This email, which was supposedly sent by Microsoft, warns that your Outlook account has been suspended due to a security issue.

It claims that you can lift the account restrictions by clicking a link to confirm your email address and login details.

However, the email has no connection to Microsoft or Outlook and your account has not been suspended as claimed.

The email is a phishing scam designed to steal your account login information.

If you fall for the trick and click the link, a fake Microsoft-branded website will load in your browser. A form on the site will ask you to sign in with your Microsoft Account email address and password. After entering the information, you may be redirected to a genuine Microsoft website.

But, now,  the crooks can collect the information you provided and use it to hijack your Microsoft Account. Your account login will likely allow access to several linked services including email, Skype,  OneDrive, and Office 365.

Once they have gained access, the crooks can use these services to launch spam and scam campaigns, collect and steal your personal information,  and conduct fraudulent transactions and activities in your name.

There are many variations of these email account phishing scams. Be very cautious of any message that claims that there is a problem with your account and demands that you click a link to deal with it.

It is always better to login to your online accounts by typing the service’s website address into your browser’s address bar or via a trusted app.

A screenshot of the scam email:

Transcript of the scam email:

Subject: Microsoft Security Issue

Outlook Security Issue

Dear (email address removed),

We are writing to alert you that your outlook account has been suspended. To remove any restrictions, you need to confirm your email address and log-in using the following link.

Confirm your account

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