If you have a concern about the legitimacy of an email, what is a recommended course of action?

When you have a concern about the legitimacy of an email, the safest and most effective course of action is to pick up the phone and call the company using a number you have, rather than one provided in the email. This method allows you to confirm whether the email is authentic by contacting the company directly. If the email was a phishing attempt or was sent with malicious intent, responding to it or engaging with any links can put you at risk of compromising sensitive information.

Additionally, using a number you previously had or finding one from a trusted source adds a layer of security, ensuring you are reaching the legitimate company. This proactive step helps verify the sender's identity without involving potentially compromised communication channels.

Checking the email's website link, replying to the email, or forwarding it to a friend may not provide the necessary verification and could inadvertently promote further risk.