Phishing emails are a significant threat to businesses of all sizes. While not every business falls victim to these cyberattacks, those that do often suffer serious consequences. The deciding factor in many cases is human error. Just one person falling for a phishing email can compromise the security of the entire company.
The Impact of Phishing Emails
- 95% of cyber security breaches are due to human error.
- Phishing is responsible for 36% of data breaches, an increase of 11% from last year.
- 45% of ransomware attacks are delivered through phishing emails.
Why Focus on Phishing Emails?
Phishing emails are the starting point for over 85% of successful breaches. Learning how to identify these emails is crucial for maintaining the security of your company.
How to Identify a Phishing Attack
With proper training, anyone can learn to distinguish a legitimate email from a phishing attempt. Here are some key tips:
1. Check the Sender’s Email Address:
- Verify that the email is from a familiar source.
- Be cautious of slight misspellings or variations in the sender’s email address.
2. Examine the Email Format:
- Ensure the email has a professional or familiar format.
- Do not engage if the email contains:
- Numerous typos
- Missing physical address, name, or signature in the footer
- No unsubscribe option (for newsletters)
3. Look for Urgent or Untrustworthy Calls-to-Action:
- Be wary of emails that create a sense of urgency or pressure you into taking immediate action.
Example: “You have 24 hours or you’ll be arrested. Click the link to prevent that!”
4. Hover Over Links Before Clicking:
- Do not click on URLs that are long or from unfamiliar websites.
- Hover over the link to check the hyperlink destination.
5. Avoid Clicking on Attachments or Providing Credentials:
- Only click on attachments or provide credentials if you are certain the source is legitimate.
6. Forward Suspicious Emails:
- If you are unsure whether an email is a phishing attempt, forward it to [email protected]. Our team will verify its legitimacy for you.
Enhancing Protection Against Phishing
Following the tips above can help you and your business filter out potential phishing emails. However, to ensure comprehensive protection, consider implementing additional measures:
Anti-Spam Programs:
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We offer a 24/7 anti-spam program that protects against phishing attempts.
Cybersecurity Training:
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Our Security and Awareness Training includes exposure to fictitious phishing emails, helping your team recognize and respond to real threats.
Protect Your Business Today
Empowered IT Solutions is dedicated to helping you safeguard your business from phishing attacks and other cyber threats. Contact us today to learn more about our cybersecurity services and training programs.