Don't Fall for the Phishing Bait !

Global spending on IT security is estimated to cross $1.8 trillion by 2022. This massive investment is the result of businesses aiming to effectively safeguard their IT resources. Today's businesses generate massive amounts of data as the world gets more digital. This data must be secured against cyber security risks. But what exactly is a cyber threat?  More importantly, how can you protect your personal or professional data from cyber-attacks?

What Are Cyber Security Threats?

Cyber security risks are defined as acts or projected actions to steal data or cause digital damage to data. In this post, we'll look at one of the most common types of cyber-attacks: phishing.

What is Phishing?

Phishing is a type of social engineering attack in which hackers attempt to gain users' data. The data includes Login passwords, credit card details, and bank account numbers. The attacker usually disguises himself as a trustworthy entity to trick unsuspecting victims into opening an email, text message, or text message. The hacker then exploits the victim into clicking on a malicious link. The bad link can cause malware to be installed, sensitive information to be exposed, or the machine to freeze.

Why is Phishing so Popular?

Phishing stands out as the top cyber security risk for IT Security Solution providers around the world. But why do hackers prefer phishing so much? Here are the four reasons below:

•    The attack technique is highly flexible and simple to implement
•    Execution of phishing attack is quick and easy
•    Assist cybercriminals in stealing large amounts of money as well as important data.
•    Easy to trap victims using social random mail attacks 

How Can You Protect Yourself From Phishing Attacks?

We need to learn and develop ourselves to mitigate advance level phishing attacks. Here, we'll go through five practical methods for avoiding phishing attacks.

•    Check The Security Of The Website

Most users get skeptical when it comes to sharing personal data digitally. However, it is perfectly fine to share personal information if the website is secured. But how can you identify whether you’re on a secured website? Check to see if the URL begins with 'HTTPS' and has a closed lock icon near the address bar. Check the website's SSL certificate as well. Never open a website after receiving a warning that it may be vulnerable. Additionally, avoid downloading anything from any websites that appear suspicious.

•    Never Click On Unknown Links

The phishing attacks rate can be reduced if we pay serious attention before clicking on random links. If an email appears unusual for any reason, think twice before sharing any personal details.

•    Better To Use Anti-Phishing Toolbar

Top internet browsers enable users to add an anti-phishing toolbar to them. A toolbar typically performs a short assessment of each website you visit and compares it to all known phishing websites. The toolbar offers real-time notifications whenever you approach an untrusted website.

•    Use Reputed Antivirus Software

Installing antivirus software can help you keep safe from viruses. Look for anti-spyware that can detect and prevent phishing attempts. Just be sure to keep the application updated to integrate additional features developed to minimize unwanted assaults.

•    Keep Your Online Accounts Updates 

When was the last time you updated or double-checked your online accounts? Sometimes hackers find it simple to hack your accounts with old passwords. So we recommend you spend time monitoring and maintaining all your online accounts once a week. This approach will eliminate most of the phishing attempts and other serious data loss issues. It's also a smart idea to update your passwords regularly to significantly reduce the possibility of data loss or hacking.

The Secured Step

Businesses can prevent some of the most prominent types of phishing attacks by following the recommendations outlined above. However, there is no full-proof technique to eliminate all phishing attacks as they are continually adapting new forms and tactics.

So, businesses need to offer their workforce specialized IT security awareness training. This will help brands to stays on top of Phishing’s evolution. To know more about IT Security Solutions feel free to contact us @ info@vareli.co.in.