The most common phishing theme? Finance.
What exactly is a phishing email? Think of it as a wolf disguised in sheep’s clothing, masquerading as a legitimate message to deceive unsuspecting recipients.
These emails often contain harmful links, attachments, or requests for sensitive information, all cleverly disguised as communication from a trusted source.
They say knowledge is power, and staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself. Let’s delve into the most common phishing emails from last year.
Phishing emails fall into three main categories: Major, moderate, and minor.
Major Themes: Finance-related phishing emails dominate, accounting for a staggering 54% of attacks. These emails typically include fake invoices or payment requests, aiming to trick recipients into divulging financial details.
Next in line are notification phishing emails, constituting 35% of attacks. These prey on urgency, often claiming that your password is expiring or prompting immediate action.
Moderate Themes: Document and voicemail scams take the spotlight here, comprising 38% and 25% of attacks respectively. These schemes involve deceptive files or messages designed to compromise your security.
Minor Themes: Though less common, minor phishing themes still pose a risk to those unaware. These include emails related to benefits, taxes, job applications, and property.
Why should you care about phishing emails?
Falling victim to these scams can lead to financial loss, data breaches, and damage to your company’s reputation. It’s crucial to educate your employees about the dangers of phishing and implement robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard your business.
Awareness and vigilance are your best defenses against phishing attacks. By staying informed, training your team, and implementing strong security protocols, you can protect your company’s assets from cyber threats.
At GZD, we specialise in helping businesses like yours stay secure. If you’re unsure about your level of protection, let’s have a conversation.
