Your email inbox is full of threats; have you ever considered that an email from Microsoft could become the biggest fear?

Microsoft, the tech company we all rely on and trust, is one of the most copied brands when it comes to phishing scams. Cyber criminals will send emails containing links or files containing malicious malware in order to gain access to sensitive data and steal it from users.

Microsoft isn't at fault; however, you and your staff should remain wary of anything suspicious that arises in the workplace.

Microsoft was the most copied brand by criminals during the second quarter 2023, accounting for 29% of phishing attempts.

Apple (at 5.2%) and Google (19.5%) both boast significantly lower percentages; nevertheless, these three tech titans account for over half of all observed brand imitation attacks.

What does this mean for my business?

Recent surges of fake emails targeting millions of Windows or Microsoft 365 users worldwide indicate the need to remain vigilant against identity thefts and other types of fraud attacks. With careful vigilance, you can protect yourself from such scenarios.

Cyber criminals typically remain consistent in their tactics, even though the most frequently copied brands may vary quarterly.

Phishing scams use colors, fonts and logos that look real to fool potential victims into opening accounts with them. Domains or URLs resembling the original will often use typos or errors in their messages that serve as telltale signs that this could be a fraud scheme.

One of the latest attacks involves redirecting you to a malicious website by falsely alleging that your Microsoft account has experienced unusual sign-in activities, which then links to potentially dangerous links capable of stealing anything from payment information to login credentials.

Tech companies remain an attractive target for cyber criminals; however, cybercriminals have turned increasingly towards financial services like online banking, gift certificates and shopping as targets of brand phishing attacks during Q2 2023 - accounting for 4,2% and 4% respectively.

What should you protect your business against?

Finding out about phishing can be easier than you think: simply slow down, observe and analyze. Check for changes in URLs/domains as well as message text to identify scammers.

Reach out at (404) 932-5940 or email us at info@nuwaveitc.com if we can assist with keeping your team informed about any risks.