University of Kwazulu-Natal

Think Before You Click Safeguarding Your Digital Reputation

Bonisiwe Shabane
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think before you click safeguarding your digital reputation

Cybersecurity incidents rarely begin with highly sophisticated attacks. More often, they originate from something far more routine: a simple click. In fact, 90% of all cyberattacks start with a phishing email. This carelessness may result in disclosing internal networks, stealing essential data, and damaging the finances of the companies and their reputation, which could be just caused by one click through a bad link or... So what can organizations do to address this deceptively small but profoundly risky behavior? Building a strong digital mindfulness practice among people is the answer.

Think before you click, which should become a habit across different teams, processes, and policies. In modern times, things like misspelled words and questionable links are not always signs of phishing and social engineering. Now, cybercriminals can create messages that are meant for one target, which makes them easy to miss by typical security filters. The result is a threat landscape where even the most vigilant teams can be caught off guard. Many enterprises with lots of exchanged emails often overlook these simple attacks. In a world where nearly everything we do—work, communicate, shop, learn—is online, our collective digital safety depends on small, individual choices.

One wrong click or a careless password can have serious consequences. But here’s the hopeful truth: we can make a difference—together. Phishing, social engineering, malicious links … these are no longer fringe threats. They’re everywhere. And they rely on one thing: human error. A well-crafted fraudulent email or WhatsApp message can trick even experienced users.

That’s why the phrase “Think Before You Click” is more than a slogan—it’s a mindset. It invites us to pause, question, and verify before taking actions that could compromise our security. Let’s look at what habits we can adopt to make our online world safer—both personally and collectively. In today’s digital world, every click matters. While the internet offers boundless opportunities, it also presents risks—especially when cybercriminals are waiting for just one moment of distraction to exploit vulnerabilities. Protecting sensitive data starts with awareness, and by adopting safe online practices, you can stay one step ahead of cyber threats.

If you receive an email, link, or attachment from an unknown sender, take a moment to verify its authenticity. Cyber attackers often disguise malicious links within seemingly legitimate emails. Always double-check before clicking. Phishing emails are designed to trick you into revealing personal or company-sensitive information. Look for warning signs like: Before clicking on a hyperlink, hover your mouse over it to preview the actual URL.

If it looks unusual or doesn’t match the expected website, avoid clicking it. Always navigate to official websites by typing the URL directly into your browser. Never enter personal information into pop-ups or unexpected login pages. If prompted to enter sensitive data, verify the legitimacy of the request by checking the official website or contacting the sender through a trusted method. In today’s hyperconnected world, your online presence speaks volumes about who you are – personally and professionally. “Many people don’t realise that their casual online behaviour can have serious professional consequences,” says Ernest Mulibana, external communication manager at Anglo American.

“We’re seeing an alarming trend of individuals facing termination, legal action and even arrest due to irresponsible online conduct.” Mulibana recommends embracing four pillars of digital responsibility: Your online presence is a powerful tool for career advancement. While authenticity matters, remember that potential employers, colleagues and clients are watching. Media Contact: Bob NicholasVice President | Marketing & Sales Enablement248-442-6640 | rnicholas@amerisure.com In today’s fast-paced business environment, digital engagement is an integral part of daily operations.

However, this reliance on technology has led to a rise in cybersecurity incidents targeting sensitive personal information, proprietary data, and financial transactions, including insurance premium payments. Recent reports indicate that U.S. businesses lost over $12.5 billion to cybercrime in 2023—a 22% increase from the previous year. At Amerisure, safeguarding your information is a top priority, especially during Cybersecurity Month. To support you in navigating these challenges, we’ve compiled key cybersecurity insights, common threats, and essential reminders to help mitigate risks. Email Phishing: A Gateway for Cyber Attacks

Every day, countless businesses fall victim to phishing attacks—one of the most effective tools in a cybercriminal’s arsenal. These deceptive emails are designed to trick you into clicking on malicious links, downloading harmful attachments, or sharing sensitive credentials. Once they gain access, attackers can steal data, install malware, or even initiate fraudulent transactions that cost companies millions. Every time you open an email, scroll through your feed, or browse a new website, you’re making decisions—tiny choices that, in the digital world, can have big consequences. All it takes is one careless click to open the door to malware, phishing scams, identity theft, or worse. But what if the key to better cybersecurity wasn’t just stronger passwords or smarter software?

What if it was a habit—something as simple and powerful as thinking before you click? Outsmarting cyber threats doesn’t require technical mastery. It starts with awareness, a touch of skepticism, and the courage to pause before reacting. In today’s online environment, that pause is your strongest defense. Cybercriminals aren’t just exploiting machines—they’re exploiting people. They rely on emotion, urgency, and manipulation.

A suspicious link doesn’t scream danger; it often looks like a shipping notice, a job offer, or an account warning. These aren’t just random spam—they’re engineered to make you act before you think. That’s why phishing emails often use subject lines like “Unusual Login Attempt” or “Your Package Has Been Delayed.” They’re designed to hijack your instinct to protect, to fix, to respond. The more urgent or emotional the message feels, the more likely it’s a trap.

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