How to spot a phishing scheme

Many business owners make the mistake of thinking phishing emails are merely an irritation that can do no harm to their company.

However, many can often carry serious threats. These malicious messages are used to coerce employees into taking actions to the detriment of your firm. This can range from disclosing financial details like company account numbers, to revealing the passwords of protected areas of your IT systems.

Phishing can come in many forms, from emails and texts to voice calls. Messages can include doctored documents that contain malicious code. If staff download them, they can infect devices and all computers connected to a single system. Sometimes, phishing attempts involve links that, if clicked on, take staff to fake websites that look like sign-in pages, with the aim of stealing their credentials.

Signs of a phishing email

The first indication of a phishing attempt is a sense of urgency. The attacker will demand immediate action, often threatening a serious consequence. Malicious operators often impersonate legitimate companies like banks and even government agencies.

Often, emails are constructed by individuals from overseas. As a result, their English grammar and spelling can sometimes be poor, suggesting an attack.

Requests for sensitive details like passwords and usernames are also a giveaway. No legitimate company will ask for such personal data online.

How to protect against phishing

The best way to defend your firm against phishing is to train your staff to identify and report suspicious emails.

At 127 Solutions, we provide cybersecurity assistance alongside IT support, and can help stop phishing emails from entering your team’s inboxes. Contact us today to find out more.