Today we reflect on a very important topic in the world of cyber security, phishing, and how Cyber Security can be beneficial in the prevention of an attack.  Phishing is defined as the use of fraudulent email accounts intended to lure viewers to click on messages in attempts to steal personal information or install malware onto your device. There are many phishing techniques utilized to launch a phishing attack, but some of the most common types include: bulk emails that lure victims to an action that exploits information, spear phishing that targets individuals with high access credentials, and business email compromise that aims to launch a large scale attack by targeting the CEO of a company. Outcomes of phishing often include: identity theft, credit card fraud, ransomware attacks, data breaches, and large financial losses are all common following a phishing attack.

Considering that a phishing attack could be a detriment to your company or business, being able to identify a phishing attack is a crucial first step in prevention of an attack. Below is a list of prevention techniques you should take to identify and prevent a phishing attack:

• • Use spam filters that will separate suspicious emails from your general email chain
  • Use anti-virus/malware software that identifies suspicious codes commonly contained in phishing emails or messages
  • Use multi-factor authentication to add a secondary barrier to protect you and your company’s information from a phishing attack.
  • Use web filters that will monitor and prevent employees from visiting websites that pose a potential threat to private information

• • Avoid emails that seem strange in the context of your business that are poorly crafted or provide a sense of urgency towards an offer that may sound too good to be true. 

Remember that the ultimate goal of a phishing attack is to take advantage of you and your business and steal what is yours. Some businesses have been compromised and needed to shut down due to a phishing attack, so follow these tips and stay educated on cyber security so you can stay one step ahead and keep your information in your own hands. 

References

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