Cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated and have the potential to be incredibly damaging to your company. Moreover, cybercriminals ramp up their threats during the holiday season. One of the most common and dangerous threats is phishing. Phishing is when cybercriminals pose as trustworthy sources to deceive you into sharing sensitive information like login credentials. Attacks can happen through email, phone calls, and text messages. Attacks lead to fraud, data breaches, or malware infections. Here’s a closer look at how to spot these scams and protect your business from online threats.
Different Types of Phishing Attacks
Here are some of the most common forms of phishing attacks:
Email Phishing
This is the most widespread type of attack. Attackers send emails that look like they are coming from a legitimate source or someone you know. Often, they contain a malicious link or attachment designed to steal personal and business information or install malware. The objective is to make the email appear as real as possible.
Domain Spoofing
Domain spoofing is one way to make email phishing effective. Cybercriminals manipulate domain names to appear like official websites or email addresses. For example, they create an email address support@micos0ft.com instead of support@microsoft.com. While the difference is subtle, it’s enough to trick someone with a busy schedule.
Vishing
Attackers impersonate trusted organizations like banks or government agencies over the phone. They try to convince you to share sensitive information, such as your bank account details or Social Security Number.
Smishing
Scammers send text messages that look like they’re from a legitimate company or person and ask you to click on a link or provide personal information.
Real-Life Phishing Scenarios
Phishing scams are constantly evolving, but some patterns remain common. Here are a few examples:
Cyberattack
You receive an email saying there’s an issue with your Microsoft account and that you must update your credentials to avoid being locked out. The email includes a link to a fake website design to capture your login information.
Office 365 Deletion Alerts
An email claims that your files in the Office 365 account were deleted and asks you to log in to restore them. The link takes you to a fraudulent website that steals your credentials.
“Boss in Need” Scams
These scams appear from your boss or colleague who urgently needs you to purchase something. The attacker creates a sense of urgency, hoping to trick you into wiring funds.
How to Spot Phishing Attempts
Recognizing these attempts can save you from falling victim to these scams. Here are some key signs to watch out for:
Urgency and Threats
Phishing emails will pressure you into acting quickly. Watch for phrases like “Immediate action required” or “Your account is suspended.” These create a sense of urgency and encourage you to act without thinking.
Unfamiliar Senders
If you receive an email from an unfamiliar sender or see “External” in the subject line, stay alert. Cybercriminals often use email addresses that look similar to legitimate ones.
Spelling and Grammar Errors
Many phishing emails have spelling and grammar mistakes that a legitimate business wouldn’t make. If something seems off, it’s possibly a scam.
Suspicious Links and Attachments
Never click links or download attachments from unknown sources. If the URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match the real website, report it.
How to Report Phishing
Reporting phishing attempts helps prevent others from falling victim. Here’s how to report one:
- Email: Forward suspicious emails to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org.
- Text Messages: Forward phishing texts to SPAM (7726).
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report phishing attempts to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Microsoft Reporting: Use Outlook and Teams to report phishing.
- Notify IT Support: Contact your IT department or external cybersecurity experts for assistance if the phishing attack involves business accounts.
Phishing attacks are a serious threat. However, staying vigilant and implementing strong security practices protect your business from these scams. Regular employee training, secure networks, and timely preparation can help keep your business’s data safe.
If you are concerned about your company’s cybersecurity protocols or want to train your staff how to spot phishing, contact FSA Consulting today. We’re here to help safeguard your business against online threats.