When Google changed its sign-in screen, some users panicked. Although Google’s change was legitimate, these tech-savvy users were right to be cautious: When a well-known website suddenly changes its appearance without warning, it’s often a possible sign of a spear phishing attack.

What Is Phishing, Anyway?

Simply put, phishing attacks are scams that involve a person posing as someone you would trust, in the hopes that you’ll hand over valuable information such as usernames, passwords, or even banking or credit card account numbers. The result: identity and financial theft.