Phishing Scam Categories

And the prize for the most common phishing scam goes to…

If there’s one thing that’s absolutely certain when it comes to safeguarding your business data, it’s the need to be vigilant about phishing emails.

First and foremost, what exactly is a phishing email? Imagine it as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, masquerading as a genuine communication to trick unsuspecting recipients. These emails often contain harmful links, attachments, or requests for sensitive information, all camouflaged as coming from a familiar business or person you trust.

And as the saying goes: Knowledge is power. One of the most effective ways to stay safe is to stay informed. We can achieve this by examining the most prevalent phishing emails from the previous year.

Phishing themes generally fall into three main categories: Significant, moderate, and minor.

Major themes

The most prominent category involves finance-related phishing emails, constituting a significant 54% of attacks. These emails frequently feature fake invoices or payment demands, aiming to deceive recipients into divulging financial details.

Following closely are notification phishing emails, comprising 35% of attacks. These emails exploit a sense of urgency, asserting that your password is on the verge of expiring or that immediate action is required.

Moderate themes

Here, document and voicemail scams take the spotlight, accounting for 38% and 25% of attacks respectively. These strategies involve deceptive files or messages crafted to manipulate you into compromising your security.

Minor themes

Though less prevalent, minor phishing themes still present a risk to those unaware of what to watch for. These encompass emails concerning benefits, taxes, job applications, and property.

Why should you be wary of phishing emails? Falling victim to these scams can result in serious consequences, including financial losses, data breaches, and harm to your company’s reputation. It’s crucial to educate your staff about the perils of phishing and implement robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard your business.

Awareness and vigilance are your strongest defences against phishing attacks. By remaining informed, training your employees, and implementing stringent security protocols, you can shield your company’s valuable assets from cyber threats. We assist businesses like yours in staying secure.

If you’re not 100% confident that you’re fully protected… We are here to help.

Kalara can guide you through this journey. Get in touch.