Top 5 Phishing Emails to Watch Out for in 2025

Stay ahead of cybercriminals and protect your data with these essential tips to mitigate the growing threat of phishing emails.

Phishing emails are one of the biggest cyberthreats facing businesses today, with scammers constantly evolving their tactics to steal sensitive data, infiltrate systems, and exploit employees. From fake invoices to urgent security alerts, these emails are designed to look convincing and trick even the most cautious staff. In this blog, we’ll break down the latest phishing techniques, how to spot red flags, and the best ways to protect your business from falling victim to these scams.

Common Phishing Emails Currently in Circulation in the UK

  1. Netflix Phishing Email

In 2025, Netflix phishing emails have become increasingly sophisticated, targeting users with convincing fake login requests, billing issue alerts, and account suspension warnings. Cybercriminals are using AI-generated messages that mimic Netflix’s branding, complete with official-looking logos and personalised details, making it harder to spot the scam. These emails often contain urgent language, tricking users into clicking malicious links that lead to fake Netflix login pages designed to steal credentials. Some even deploy advanced tactics like QR code phishing to bypass traditional security filters. To stay safe, users should verify emails directly on the Netflix website, enable multi-factor authentication, and be cautious of unexpected requests for payment or personal details.

2. Fake British Gas Bill Email

Deceptive British Gas phishing emails prey on customers with fake overdue bill notices, refund offers, and urgent disconnection warnings. As with all phishing email cybercriminals craft emails that closely resemble official British Gas communications, complete with realistic branding, reference numbers, and even AI-generated customer service language. These scams often pressure recipients into clicking malicious links that lead to fraudulent payment portals designed to steal banking details. Some phishing attempts also use QR codes or spoofed phone numbers to trick victims into calling fake support lines. To stay protected, customers should verify any suspicious emails by logging into their official British Gas account directly and avoid clicking on unsolicited links or providing sensitive information via email.

3. Amazon Phishing Email

As one of the world’s largest online retailers, Amazon is a prime target for fraudsters looking to steal personal data through phishing emails. Scammers often impersonate Amazon in emails designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information. 

Two of the most common scams include: 

  • A fraudulent email claims that your Amazon account has been locked due to suspicious activity. 
  • An email promotes an exclusive sale, tricking you into clicking malicious links. 

Both scams aim to create panic, making you believe your account has been hacked. If you fall for it, cybercriminals could gain access and make unauthorised purchases using your payment details. 

4. EE Scam Phishing Email

EE scams in 2025 have become even trickier, with fraudsters sending out highly convincing phishing emails that claim issues with billing, security updates, or exclusive upgrade offers. These emails look almost identical to real EE communications and use urgent language to pressure users into taking action. Many include links to counterfeit EE websites designed to steal login credentials or payment details, while others use QR codes to bypass security filters. Some scams even attempt to trick customers into calling fraudulent helplines where scammers pose as EE support agents. To stay safe, you should verify any unexpected emails by logging into your EE account directly and never click on links or enter details unless you are 100% sure the request is legitimate.

5. TV Licencing Scam Emails

From April 2025, the cost of a TV licence will increase by £5 to £174.50, and scammers are taking advantage of this change to target unsuspecting individuals. Fraudulent emails claiming urgent payment is required, offering refunds, or advertising cheaper TV licences elsewhere are on the rise.

The TV Licensing office has confirmed that it only sends emails in specific circumstances:

  • If you miss a payment
  • If you request a refund

To make their emails appear legitimate, scammers often include fake TV licence numbers. However, you can verify your correct licence number using the official documents provided when you purchased your licence.

How to Identify Genuine TV Licensing Emails:

They will come from one of these official addresses:
donotreply@tvlicensing.co.uk or donotreply@spp.tvlicensing.co.uk

They will include part of your name and a section of your postcode

5 Ways to Spot Phishing Emails

    1. Check sender information 
    2. Look out for spelling and grammar errors
    3. Look out for generic greetings like ‘dear customer or account holder’
    4. Suspicious links and QR codes
    5. Unsolicited email attachments

Protective Measures against Phishing Emails

Verify Communications: Always confirm the authenticity of unsolicited messages or calls, especially those requesting personal information or financial transactions.

Be Cautious with Links and Attachments: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or suspicious sources.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Implement complex passwords and change them regularly to enhance security.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access your accounts.

Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest scam tactics and educate yourself and others on how to recognize and avoid them.

The best way to combat phishing email scams is regular cybersecurity training for your entire team. Get in touch with Syn-Star to discuss how we can help your business mitigate cybersecurity risks.

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Agnes Syn-Star Content writer

Agnes Molnar

Agnes is Syn-Star’s expert content writer, she has  Master’s degree in English Literature that provides a strong foundation in writing and critical thinking of everything she does.

Qualifications: Masters in English Literature

In-house training: HubSpot SEO, WordPress Training.

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Agnes Syn-Star Content writer

Agnes Molnar

Agnes is Syn-Star’s expert content writer, she has  Master’s degree in English Literature that provides a strong foundation in writing and critical thinking of everything she does.

Qualifications: Masters in English Literature

In-house training: HubSpot SEO, WordPress Training.

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