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Cyber crime experts have noticed that phishers are becoming bolder with their attacks.
The rise of Phishing victims over the past years has been quite alarming. Recently, phishers are even using the spread of the COVID-19 to attack unknowing victims. The phishing scheme involves sending out phishing emails with links or attachments supposedly containing COVID-19 updates but is actually malware. But what is Phishing? Morever, how do you recognise an attack and avoid it?
What is Phishing
Phishing is a cyber fraud or scam used to steal your personal data—e.g., passwords, credit card and billing information. It is a type of social engineering attack where the attacker or Phisher, tricks you into providing sensitive information.
Phishers use your information to expand their criminal range. For example, to steal directly from your bank account or buy expensive items. They can also steal your identity to victimise your personal and business networks through stalking, extortion, or blackmail.
How does Phishing work
The most common phishing techniques use email marketing strategies to “bait” victims into giving up their personal data.
Phishers often copy emails from legitimate businesses like a bank or a social networking platform. They will ask the recipients of the fake email to click on a link to confirm or update their account information. Once clicked, the victim will then be taken to a replica of the organisation’s website, which will capture their login details.
Phishers use the same strategy to trick victims into downloading malware. Instead of going to a website to enter your login details, the link will automatically download a file or folder. Once opened, the malware will be released into your device. However, instead of infecting your data, it will steal all of it.
Phishers use various techniques to gain access to your personal information through common communication tools, e.g., emails, text messages, chatbots, social media.
How to recognise an attack
Phishers always use an urgent tone in their messages to make you believe that you need to take action immediately. For example, they will say that you need to update your account information to continue a particular service. Some will also say that you have unsettled bill or discrepancies with your account, which could result in penalties.
In addition, phishers use messages that appeal to emotion. Have you ever received an email asking you to donate to HIV-infected children in Africa? Or maybe to help people in COVID-19 affected countries?
Yes, those are also examples of phishing emails.
Now that you know what phishing is, it’s time to find out how to spot an attack. To help you, check out the DBA Tech Advisory infographics.
Now that you know what phishing is and how to spot an attack, you can avoid being a victim. By becoming more vigilant, you can help stop the spread of phishing emails. Moreover, you can guarantee the safety of your client’s data.
However, if you receive a suspicious email, immediately report it to your IT support staff or to the cybercrime division in your area. Moreover, if you accidentally clicked the link or think your personal data has already been compromised, contact your financial institution immediately.
If you need assistance with securing your organisation from cyberattacks, contact us now. Our team of proactive cybersecurity experts will help reduce your vulnerabilities and strengthen your security protocols.
Maann Sagun, MDC, DMP
Maann is a Communication Specialist and educator—masking as the Senior Content Writer of DBA. She is also a Digital Marketing Professional and specializes in SEO Audits. Maann has taken both her master’s degree in Development Communication, and bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from the University of the Philippines.
Maann Sagun, MDC, DMP
Maann is a Communication Specialist and educator—masking as the Senior Content Writer of DBA. She is also a Digital Marketing Professional and specializes in SEO Audits. Maann has taken both her master’s degree in Development Communication, and bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from the University of the Philippines.
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