Have you ever heard the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words”? Well, cyber criminals have, too, and they’re exploiting it to their advantage. In a new twist on phishing campaigns, these digital tricksters are luring victims to click on images instead of downloading malicious files or clicking suspicious links.
Let’s look at the warning signs of these cyber attacks so you can keep your business safe.
What’s the Big Deal About Clicking on an Image?
It might seem harmless, like a killer deal or a one-time offer. But when you click on the image, you don’t go to the real website. Instead, it’s a fake site designed to steal your personal information. Imagine being drawn in by a cute cat photo, only to find out that Mr. Whiskers was actually a wolf in sheep’s clothing! Not so cute anymore, right?
Spotting Phishing Images: Warning Signs
- Unexpected Emails: Did you get an email from someone you don’t know or weren’t expecting? Be cautious! It’s like accepting candy from a stranger – you never know what you’re getting into.
- Too Good to Be True: If an email promises a free vacation or a million dollars just for clicking an image, remember the golden rule: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Spelling and Grammar Mistakes: Everyone makes typos, but if an email is riddled with errors, it could be a sign that something’s fishy.
- Mismatched Logos or Branding: If an email claims to be from a reputable company but the logo or branding doesn’t match up, assume it’s a scam.
Protecting Your Business from Image-Based Phishing Attacks
Educate Your Employees
Knowledge is power! Ensure your team is aware of the latest phishing tactics and knows how to spot the warning signs.
Keep Software Up-to-Date
Just like you wouldn’t drive a car with bald tires, don’t let your software become outdated. Regular updates help patch security vulnerabilities that cyber criminals might exploit.
Use Strong Passwords
It might be tempting to use “password123” for all your accounts, but resist the urge! A strong, unique password for each account can help prevent unauthorized access. Using a password manager is even better.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring verification through another method, such as a text message or fingerprint scan.
Backup Your Data
In case disaster strikes, ensure you have a backup of all your files. That way, you won’t be left high and dry if your data is compromised.
While cyber criminals are getting smarter with their tactics, there’s no need to panic. By being aware of the warning signs and taking proactive steps to protect your business, you can stay one step ahead of these digital tricksters.
Remember, not all that glitters is gold – or in this case, not every cute cat picture is just a cute cat picture. Stay vigilant, and don’t let the scammers win! If you have questions about your companies exposure level reach out to us. Our team is trained to mitigate risks to these types of attacks and help you and your company maximize uptime.