BotNet News

Your source for Online Security News

Phishing is one of the most common cyber attacks for Internet users, and it is getting more sophisticated every day. Its main purpose is to steal personal information (like passwords, credit card details and bank account logins), but attackers can also use this information for a number of other malicious purposes, such as spreading malware or denial of service attacks on companies’ infrastructures.

Attackers usually phish for information by impersonating an institution, such as a bank, to trick the victim into handing over login credentials. They often apply a sense of urgency, for example, by claiming the victim’s bank account will be closed or their credit card will expire if they don’t provide their credentials immediately. Other tactics include mentioning personal information such as names or dates of birth, iCloud logins, or Apple Pay transactions to build trust and seem legitimate. In targeted or “spear” phishing attacks, attackers can even use AI voice generator tools to sound like their victims’ managers or family members in phone calls.

A phishing attack is more likely to succeed when it targets a group of people at work in a specific industry. This is why attacks are usually launched during working hours. They can target people who are more likely to be receptive, for example, during lunch breaks or when they’re on their way home from work.

Training employees on how to spot a phishing email is essential for any organization. However, companies should also ensure their software and applications are up to date, and implement antiphishing protections such as Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance (DMARC), Sender Policy Framework (SPF) and Domain Keys Identified Mail (DKIM). This can help protect against more sophisticated phishing attacks, as well as reduce the chances of an employee clicking on a link or downloading a malicious attachment that may cause malware or a data leak.