Unsubscribe Scam
Beware the Unsubscribe Scam: What You Need to Know
Everyone’s inbox is flooded with marketing emails, and when you see one you don’t recognize, your first instinct may be to click “Unsubscribe.” But cybercriminals know that too—and they’re using it to their advantage.
Welcome to the Unsubscribe Scam, a rising phishing tactic designed to trick you into clicking malicious links disguised as harmless opt-outs. These scams are simple, effective, and dangerous.
How the Scam Works
Scammers send emails that look like promotional messages or newsletters, often from unfamiliar or fake companies. At the bottom, they include a link to “Unsubscribe.” But instead of removing you from a mailing list, that link is loaded with malware or redirects you to a fake login page to steal your credentials.
In some versions, clicking the unsubscribe link confirms that your email address is active, which leads to even more spam or phishing emails.
What Happens If You Click?
Clicking on a malicious unsubscribe link can result in:
Malware installation: The link could download ransomware, spyware, or other malicious software onto your device.
Credential theft: You might be redirected to a fake login page mimicking Microsoft 365, Google, or another trusted service.
Data compromise: If you’re using a work device, this could open the door to broader network access for attackers.
Email harvesting: You’ve confirmed to scammers that your email is active, making you a prime target for future attacks.
How to Spot an Unsubscribe Scam
Here are a few red flags that should make you pause before clicking:
You don’t recognize the sender or ever remember subscribing.
The email has poor grammar, strange formatting, or generic language (“Dear user” instead of your name).
The “Unsubscribe” link is not at the bottom of a professional-looking footer, or looks like a button/image rather than text.
Hovering over the link shows a suspicious URL that doesn’t match the sender’s domain.
How to Protect Yourself
Don’t click suspicious unsubscribe links. If you're unsure, delete the email.
Use your email platform’s “Report Spam” or “Block Sender” function instead.
Hover over links before clicking to see where they go—if it doesn’t match the company, don’t trust it.
Keep your antivirus and email filters updated.
If you’re part of a business, ensure your team is trained in recognizing phishing attempts.
Verenity Is Here to Help
At Verenity, we help DFW-area businesses stay ahead of evolving cyber threats like unsubscribe scams. We don’t just install antivirus software—we implement layered security strategies, train your staff to recognize phishing, and actively monitor for threats 24/7.
If your business isn’t sure how to defend against deceptive attacks like these, or you want a second opinion on your current cybersecurity readiness, we’re ready to help.
Visit www.verenity.net or schedule a free consultation to see how we can keep your team and data safe—because with Verenity, your security is always personal.
