Phishing attacks have become one of the most common and dangerous cyber threats faced by modern organizations. Malicious actors use phishing tactics to gain access to sensitive data or systems, potentially resulting in data loss, financial loss, and reputational damage. It is critical to understand what these cyberattacks look like, how to prevent them, and when you should report them.
What Is Phishing?
Phishing is a type of cyberattack in which threat actors impersonate legitimate entities, attempting to deceive them into revealing sensitive information, granting access to critical systems, or downloading malware. These attacks come in many forms, and can be highly sophisticated or quite simple, but the goal remains the same: to exploit human nature for their own gain.
Common Types of Phishing Attacks
There are many types of phishing attacks that your organization may face:
- Email Phishing: Threat actors send fake emails that appear to be from legitimate companies. These emails typically contain links which will either download malware or prompt the user to enter sensitive information when clicked.
Spear Phishing: Spear phishing is more targeted-attackers customize their approach for specific individuals or organizations. They will often use personal information, like a colleague’s name or company logo, to appear more convincing.
Smishing: Smishing occurs via SMS messages. Attackers claim to be from banks, service providers, or other legitimate entities, urging recipients to click a link or call a number.
Vishing: Vishing takes place over a phone call. Attackers typically request sensitive information or access to accounts.
Whaling: Whaling is a type of spear phishing aimed at senior executives or high-profile individuals within an organization. They use highly personalized tactics to steal company data, access systems, or launch further attacks.
Clone Phishing: Threat actors copy legitimate emails sent from trusted sources, and modify them to include malicious links or attachments.
Recognizing a Phishing Attack
In order to protect your organization from phishing scams, you must be able to recognize them. Here are some key indicators to look for:
Suspicious Email Addresses or Domains: Phishing emails appear to come from legitimate entities at first glance, but closer inspection will often reveal anomalies. For instance, instead of “@bank.com,” the address may read “@bank_security.com.”
Urgent or Threatening Language: Phishing scams prey upon a sense of urgency or fear to prompt action. They will discourage you from taking time to think, and may try to convince you there will be negative consequences if you do not follow their instructions. Legitimate entities will not resort to such tactics.
Unusual Links or Attachments: A major warning sign is the presence of suspicious links or unexpected attachments. Look for URLs that do not match the company’s website, or are shortened to hide where they lead.
Errors: Emails and SMS messages may contain noticeable spelling mistakes, awkward grammar, or unusual formatting.
Requests for Sensitive Information: Legitimate entities will never ask you to provide sensitive information like passwords, social security numbers, or credit card details via email or SMS. Any message requesting these things should be treated with caution.
How to Prevent Phishing Attacks
The good news is that phishing attacks are avoidable, as long as some basic security precautions are followed:
Email Security Solutions: Implement email security solutions such as spam filters, which will help prevent phishing scams from reaching inboxes.
Staff Training: Educate staff on the dangers of phishing attacks, and how to recognize them.
Verification: Independently verify all information from suspicious emails, calls, or messages. Do not respond to any requests until you have done this.
Links and Attachments: Do not open links or attachments if you have any reason to suspect a phishing scam. Hover over links to see where they lead before clicking.
Disposal: If you suspect a phishing attempt is taking place, delete the email or SMS, or hang up the phone.
Reporting an Attack
It is crucial to report phishing attempts, as this will protect others and help prevent further attacks. Reports should be made:
To Your Company: Immediately report the phishing attempt to your IT or cybersecurity department.
To Your Email Provider: Most email platforms allow users to report phishing emails directly from the inbox by marking them as “phishing” or “spam.”
To Authorities: You can report phishing attempts to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI’s Crime and Complaint Center (IC3).
What to Do if You Fall for a Phishing Attack
If you or an employee clicked a link, or revealed sensitive information, act quickly:
Change Your Passwords: Immediately change any compromised login credentials, and ensure that multi-factor authentication is enabled.
Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on bank and email accounts for any suspicious activity.
Run Security Software: Use antivirus software to scan for and remove any malware that may have been installed.
Read more: A Complete Guide to Cybersecurity
Turn Your Staff Into Your Strongest Defense
Phishing scams are a persistent threat, but they are also avoidable. With enough knowledge and caution, you can protect your organization from these cyberattacks. By reporting suspected phishing attempts to the authorities, you can help prevent others from falling victim and create a safer world for everyone.
CTS can equip your employees with the tools they need to recognize, report, and prevent phishing attacks. We understand that your staff are your best defense, and can help you empower them to act as a shield against cyber threats. Learn how our security awareness training can make your organization safer today.
