What Is Phishing?

As the term suggests, phishing is a form of “fishing” for victims via digital communication channels such as email, SMS, social networks or instant messaging. Instead of targeting one person at a time, cybercriminals cast a very wide net, hoping that a small proportion of recipients will be tricked into sharing their sensitive data. In the context of online credit, phishing can take the form of fake messages that appear to come from your bank, a credit broker or a payment provider, asking you to “confirm your identity”, “update your file” or “validate a transaction”. Fraudulent credit applications are often behind this apparent legitimacy.

How Do Phishing Attacks Work?

A key feature of phishing is the massive and automated nature of the attack. The fraudster does not approach victims one by one, but contacts thousands or even millions of users at the same time. The message usually impersonates a bank, an Internet service provider, a trusted brand, or a financial partner with which you may really have a relationship. In practice, you receive an email or message claiming there is a security problem, an account update or a suspicious transaction. You are then urged to “quickly connect” to your account and are invited to click on a link. Security precautions with credit are essential to avoid these traps. The fake site reproduces logos, design, and wording of the authentic company to put you at ease. As soon as you enter your username, password, card number, or online banking codes, the information is captured in real-time and transmitted directly to the scammers. They can then connect to your real account, attempt payments, apply for credit in your name, or resell your data on the dark web.

Our Key Recommendations to Avoid Phishing

The most effective protection against phishing is to develop strict digital habits whenever a message asks you to provide personal or financial data. Fraudsters increasingly mimic the graphic design and tone of real companies, which is why your vigilance must not be based solely on appearance or sender name. As a rule, never click on links or download attachments contained in unsolicited emails or messages that ask you to confirm a password, credit card number, bank details or any other confidential information—even if the message seems to come from a familiar company, your bank or a recognized credit broker. In case of doubt, always check the authenticity of the request through a different channel: call the company on the official number shown on its website or on your last statement, or type the web address manually in your browser instead of clicking the link in the message. This simple reflex drastically reduces the risk of landing on a fraudulent page.

In Case of Proven Identity Theft

If you discover or strongly suspect that your identity or banking data has been used fraudulently, swift action is essential to limit the damage. The faster you react, the more you reduce the risk of unauthorized transactions, fraudulent credit applications, or long-term consequences on your financial profile. Start by securing your access to all online services and then warn your financial partners. They have dedicated procedures for blocking suspicious activities and can accompany you in the steps to regularize your situation and contest unauthorized operations linked to your accounts or your credit card.

Keep written proof (screenshots, emails, SMS, dates, and times of calls) to facilitate any further investigation. This documentation can be requested by your bank, credit provider, or the authorities in case of a formal complaint.