NCARB, or the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, is a non-profit organization that establishes and maintains architectural registration standards in the United States. As with any organization, NCARB members must access their accounts and personal information regularly. However, this also makes NCARB an attractive target for cybercriminals who use phishing attacks to steal login credentials and sensitive information. In this article, we’ll discuss NCARB phishing problems, how to avoid them, and how to log in to NCARB.org properly.
Phishing is a fraudulent practice that involves tricking individuals into divulging their personal information, such as login credentials, bank account details, or credit card information. Typically, the phisher sends an email, text message, or a social media message that appears legitimate, encouraging the recipient to click on a link or open an attachment that takes them to a fake website designed to collect personal information. NCARB phishing scams are common, and the best way to avoid them is to stay vigilant and follow the guidelines outlined below:
How to avoid NCARB phishing problems:
Verify the source of the email: When you receive an email from NCARB or any other organization, carefully check the sender’s email address to confirm that it is legitimate. Cybercriminals often use spoofed email addresses similar to the real thing but with a slight difference in spelling or domain name. For instance, instead of ncarb.org, they may use ncarb.com or ncarb.net.
Be wary of urgent requests: Phishing emails often use scare tactics to prompt you to take immediate action. These could be requests to reset your password urgently or to verify your account details immediately. If you receive such an email, don’t be quick to click on any links or enter any personal information without verifying the source first.
Look out for spelling and grammatical errors: Legitimate emails from NCARB or any other organization typically go through a thorough editing process to ensure no mistakes. If you notice any spelling or grammatical errors, it could be a sign that the email is a phishing attempt.
Use two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring you to provide a unique code sent to your phone or email before granting access. This makes it more difficult for cybercriminals to access your account even if they have your login credentials.
Use strong passwords: A strong password is at least eight characters long and combines letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable passwords such as your name or date of birth.
How to properly log in to NCARB.org:
Once you have verified that an email from NCARB is legitimate, you can log in to your account. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly log in to NCARB.org:
Open your web browser and go to www.ncarb.org.
On the top right corner of the homepage, click “Log in.”
Enter your account login credentials, which include your account number and password.
Click on “Login” to access your account.
Once logged in, you can update your personal information, view your records, and track your progress toward licensure.
In conclusion, NCARB phishing scams are a common occurrence, and it’s essential to be vigilant and follow the guidelines outlined above to avoid falling victim. If you suspect you have received a phishing email, report it to NCARB’s customer service team immediately. Additionally, ensure that you use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and keep your personal information secure at all times. By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself and your account from cyber criminals.