What is Phishing?

Phishing is a cyberattack method in which malicious actors impersonate legitimate entities or individuals to deceive targets into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data. Phishing attacks can occur via various communication channels, including email, social media, text messages, and even phone calls.

History

Phishing has a history dating back to the early 1990s when attackers began sending fraudulent emails that appeared to be from trusted sources, requesting users to provide their login credentials. The term “phishing” is a play on “fishing,” as attackers “fish” for victims using deceptive baits.

Variations of Phishing Attacks over the years

  • Email Phishing: Attackers send emails that impersonate trusted organizations, like banks, social media platforms, or government agencies. These emails contain links to fake websites designed to steal login credentials or prompt users to download malware.
  • Spear Phishing: A targeted form of phishing, where attackers customize messages for specific individuals or organizations. They gather information about their targets to make the messages more convincing.
  • Vishing: This involves voice communication, where attackers call potential victims and pretend to be someone they trust, often using tactics like claiming to be a tech support agent or a bank representative.
  • Smishing: Phishing via text messages (SMS). Attackers send SMS messages with malicious links, enticing users to click on them, often posing as delivery notifications or prize notifications.
  • CEO Fraud or Business Email Compromise (BEC): In this case, attackers impersonate high-ranking executives within a company to trick employees into transferring money or sensitive data.

Be informed and learn how to identify and protect yourself against these attacks.

  1. Verify the Sender: Double-check the sender’s email address or contact details. Legitimate organizations typically use their official domains for communication.
  2. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Hover over links in emails to see the actual URL. Be cautious about clicking on links from unknown sources.
  3. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
  4. Keep Software and Systems Updated: Ensure your operating system, antivirus, and applications are up-to-date with security patches.
  5. Be Cautious with Email Attachments: Don’t open attachments in unsolicited emails, especially if they come from unknown sources.
  6. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn to recognize phishing attempts and educate your family and colleagues to do the same.
  7. Use Email Filters: Enable spam and phishing filters in your email client to help identify and filter out suspicious messages.
  8. Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Be wary of sharing personal or financial information in response to unsolicited requests, even if they seem urgent.
  9. Verify Requests for Money or Sensitive Data: If you receive a request for money or sensitive data from a colleague or boss, verify it through a separate communication channel.
  10. Use a Secure and Updated Browser: Browsers with built-in security features can help detect and block known phishing websites.

Phishing attacks are prevalent and continually evolving, making it crucial to remain vigilant and adopt these best practices to protect yourself and your digital assets from falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

Add additional layers of security and keep a keen sharp mind when making decisions on sharing sensitive information to others no matter who they are.