A fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information (e.g., passwords, credit card numbers) by pretending to be a trustworthy entity in electronic communications, such as email.

Phishing disproportionately affects underserved communities, especially those with low digital literacy. The challenge is ensuring users can recognize and avoid these scams. The opportunity is to improve digital literacy programs that educate users on safe online practices while addressing the intersectional vulnerabilities of different communities. Moving forward, building safer digital spaces and designing platforms with stronger protections against phishing can protect vulnerable users.