No organisation is immune to cyber threats. In fact, half of businesses experienced a cyber attack last year alone. One of the most widespread and successful techniques attackers use is phishing, which exploits human behaviour rather than weaknesses in technology.
Phishing is a type of social engineering attack, designed to trick people into revealing sensitive information or handing over access that can then be used to cause serious harm. The impact can be devastating, but the good news is that with the right knowledge and habits, phishing attacks can be stopped in their tracks.
In this article, we’ll break down how phishing works, explore common phishing techniques, and share practical steps to help protect your organisation.
Phishing relies on deception. Attackers create realistic-looking emails, messages, or phone calls to fool staff into handing over passwords, financial data or other confidential information. These attacks often look entirely legitimate at first glance, which is why they can be so effective.
Being able to recognise the warning signs is the first line of defence. Let’s look at the most common phishing tactics.
Email Phishing -Still the most common method, this involves fraudulent emails posing as trusted sources, often mimicking legitimate branding and language. These emails typically include links to fake login pages, harvesting credentials as soon as a user enters them.
Spear Phishing -Unlike generic phishing, spear phishing is highly targeted. Attackers tailor their messages to individuals within your organisation, often using details they have researched to appear credible. This makes them harder to spot and more dangerous.
Whaling -A specific form of spear phishing aimed at senior executives, whaling targets those with authority over sensitive data or financial transactions. These attacks often mimic senior colleagues and request urgent payments or confidential details.
Smishing- SMS phishing, or smishing, uses text messages to lure victims into clicking malicious links. Because texts feel informal and personal, staff can be caught off guard more easily.
Vishing -Voice phishing uses phone calls to impersonate trusted contacts or authorities, pressuring staff into sharing confidential information. Although less common, these calls can be persuasive and difficult to challenge if employees aren’t trained to spot them.
Phishing attacks are easy to launch and surprisingly effective, especially if organisations lack proper defences. The consequences can be severe, financial loss, reputational damage, and even long-term business failure.
Many firms have paid a heavy price, sometimes losing millions, or never recovering at all. That’s why treating phishing as a serious business risk is essential.
Adopt AI-Powered Email Security : Artificial intelligence has transformed email security. Tools such as Microsoft Defender for Office 365 can detect and block phishing attempts that would slip past human eyes, scanning for suspicious patterns, links, or attachments before they ever reach your staff. Advanced features, including QR code defence and malware protection, strengthen your overall resilience. The best part is that this package is built into Microsoft 365 Business Premium. You just have to configure it properly, there is no need to buy third-party email security solutions.
Invest in Employee Training : Your people are the frontline of defence. Regular, practical training ensures they know what phishing looks like and what to do when they suspect something isn’t right. Awareness reduces the likelihood of an attacker succeeding.
Run Phishing Simulations : Simulated phishing exercises help staff build their confidence and reinforce learning. By recreating realistic attack scenarios, you can identify gaps in awareness, provide targeted support, and celebrate staff who set a strong example.
Phishing is a real and persistent threat but you don’t have to face it alone. At Avensys, we help businesses strengthen their defences with intelligent security solutions, staff training, and practical advice tailored to your needs.
If you’d like to understand your risks and build a stronger line of defence, reach out.
