Be Aware: Phishing and Social Engineering Threats Are Evolving
As a business owner, you’re no stranger to the dangers of phishing and Social Engineering Threats. However, the real challenge today is that these threats are constantly evolving—becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect.
What’s most concerning is that cybercriminals are increasingly targeting your employees. This is how access was gained to a well known UK retailer’s IT system in a well publicised hack. Just one mistake by an untrained staff member can result in serious financial loss and reputational damage. That’s why awareness should be your first and strongest line of defence.
Recently £47m was stolen from HMRC in a phishing attack. This, and other, well publicised attacks hit the headlines on a regular basis. However, there are thousands of phishing and social engineering attacks that are not publicised at all.
In this post, we’ll highlight the key phishing and Social Engineering Threats to watch for. The more informed you and your team are, the better positioned you’ll be to protect your business.
Common Tactics Used by Cybercriminals
Long gone are the days when poor spelling or grammar gave away a phishing attempt. Thanks to AI and other technologies, attackers are now far more convincing. Here are some of the most common techniques being used:
1. URL Spoofing: Imagine walking into what appears to be your favourite shop, only to realise it’s a fake—copying the brand’s logo, colours, and layout. That’s exactly how URL spoofing works. Hackers mimic trusted websites to trick users into entering sensitive information, often overlaying a legitimate-looking interface with a malicious link. Are you confident that your team would be able to spot a URL spoof?
2. Link Manipulation: These links may seem genuine at first glance, but subtle differences—like an altered domain or extra characters—can redirect you to dangerous websites. A single mistaken click can deploy malware or steal confidential data without your knowledge. Such links are usually combined with an urgent message to panic the end user into acting quickly without checking carefully that the message is legitimate and the link is genuine.
3. Link Shortening: Link shorteners are convenient, but they also obscure the destination. Cybercriminals use them to hide malicious content. Unless you preview a shortened link, you won’t know whether it leads to a reputable site or a phishing trap.
4. AI Voice Spoofing: This alarming tactic uses AI to replicate voices with remarkable accuracy. Fraudsters can now impersonate a colleague, manager, or even a family member—convincing you to share passwords, transfer money, or provide other sensitive information. These calls often carry a sense of urgency, making them particularly effective.
Stay Ahead of the Social Engineering Threats
Phishing and social engineering attacks rely on human error—and no one is immune. That’s why your best defence is to stay one step ahead by fostering a culture of cyber awareness.
As a trusted IT services provider, TST understand that your business needs a resilient security posture that adapts to the ever-changing threat landscape.
Let’s start by strengthening your first line of defence: your people. Our Pro Business package includes Phishing protection for your business and staff. It also includes Phishing awareness training and simulation.
Need support in training your employees? Get in touch with TST today to create a bespoke security awareness programme tailored to your business needs.