Computers have become so integrated into almost every aspect of our day-to-day, it is hard to imagine being without ours for a few hours, much less a day. Few people realize the true threat that is often present on the other end of a mouse click or a tap on the touch screen of your Smartphone. The good news is that successful cyber crime is down. The bad news is that this threat is ever evolving with cyber criminals using new tricks and techniques to break into computers, Smartphones and devices. Unsuspecting users click on a link and are redirected to servers that download malicious software onto the victim’s computer, Smartphone or device.
FACT: In Q3/4 of 2011 the number of unique phishing reports submitted internally to organizations rose substantially.
FACT: Phishing has become such a problem that just recently the Electronic Payments Association, has gone on the offensive.
FACT: A report published in 2012 showed that in 2011, California led the country in the number of cyber crime complaints and dollars lost per victim.
FACT: According to Cyber Crime Watch, 73% of Americans have experienced some form of cyber crime.
Phishing attacks were mainly a problem for consumers, but things have changed. Now businesses are targeted nearly as often as the consumer. Businesses and consumers have become very aware of old phishing tricks, which is forcing cyber criminals to innovate and get creative and that is our current challenge.
Top 3 Tips for Avoiding Phishing Attacks
- If you do not do business with the organization sending you the email – delete it.
- Never go to a website from a link in an email.
- Never send personal or financial information in an email.
Are You Cyber Ready?
This blog helps with real world insights on the cyber threat domain.