Phishing attacks are continually increasing; no one is fully shielded from it. The principal reason for this constant growth is because it provides a direct channel for attackers to target end users — the weakest part of the network.
We live in difficult days, at least when it comes to cybersecurity. As humans, we aim to look for security and comfort — even more near the end of the year. There is a responsibility laying on us, regardless we like it or not.
In addition to that, the end of the year is a peak point for phishing attacks to occur, people usually lower their defenses at this season (mainly caused by the continuous holidays).
Cyber criminals are not pausing their activities now — Are you?
The following hints will serve as a reminder to keep you safe, at least when it comes to email phishing attacks.
1. Be extra careful with the ‘unexpected’
You don’t have a hidden cousin that happens to be the prince of Kenya, sorry for passing the bad news; so, just ignore that email from the lawyer of your aunt in Iceland offering a heritage fortune, or from your cousin the “Prince of Kenya”.
Also, cyber criminals are using scams methods that include fake conversations or applications for enrollment services.
2. Your private information is yours
The IT department of your organization will never ask for your password, login info or general security questions.
Don’t ever reply with this kind of information to them or anyone. If you have doubts, try calling or contacting them directly using an alternative method.
3. Other people will get hacked
It is quite possible that you will receive a suspicious email from a person you trust.
If they are attaching a doubtful file or it merely sounds “too weird”, contemplate the fact that they could have been hacked. The cyber criminal is trying to expand the scope of attack by targeting their contacts.
4. Most phishing attack vectors contain email links and attachments
Hackers are sending emails with links and attachments using principally DocuSign and Dropbox templates.
Based on a 2018 study from Verizon, the most dangerous phishing attack vectors are links and attachments embedded in emails. More precisely, the 92% of world malware is sent via email – that’s a large volume of emails.
Unless you have verified the sender, and you were expecting such information, there is a big chance the link or attachment inside that email is harmful.
5. Keep your defenses and devices up to date
Update your devices and security software, it might be a simple click for you, but it is a big step for keeping you more secured.
Conclusion
Don’t lower your defenses during this period, at least when it comes to email security — remember, cyber criminals won’t.
Trust your instincts, what seems ‘weird’ is usually wrong. Be extra careful with the information you provide and the actions you make.
One simple click in a link can be enough to compromise your device. Lastly, update your devices and security software, it might be a simple action, but it will deliver significant and positive results.
