Cyberattacks shot up 30% in Q2 of 2024, posing a growing threat to businesses, governments, and individuals alike. We’ve all heard of Phishing, but now there are two newer and fast-growing threats – Quishing (QR code phishing) and Smishing (SMS phishing) – that are making waves. The names might sound really funny, but the danger is very real.
Phishing: The Ever-Present Danger
Phishing is still the most common form of cybercrime, with billions of spam emails flooding inboxes every day. These emails often look like they come from trusted sources, tricking people into sharing sensitive info like passwords, credit card numbers, or personal details. Even though we’re all more aware of phishing now, the techniques keep evolving, making it an ongoing threat we can’t afford to ignore.
Quishing: QR Code Phishing on the Rise
QR codes, which were once just a convenient way to scan for information, are now being used to carry out phishing attacks. Attackers hide malicious links within these codes, sending unsuspecting victims to websites designed to steal their data or install malware.
How It Works: Attackers place malicious QR codes on posters, flyers, or even in emails, tricking people into scanning them. Once scanned, the codes often lead to fake login pages or downloads that could harm your device.
The Risk: QR codes don’t show the full URL, making it easy for scammers to hide malicious sites behind what looks like a legitimate link.
How to Protect Your Business and Employees
- Be cautious about scanning QR codes from unknown or suspicious sources.
- Use trusted QR code scanners that show a preview of the link before you open it.
- Always double-check the URL, even if the QR code seems legitimate.
Smishing: SMS Phishing Strikes Again
Smishing is phishing via text message. Cybercriminals send deceptive SMS messages that appear to come from trusted sources like banks, service providers, or government agencies. These messages often include links or phone numbers designed to steal personal information or trick victims into sending money.
How It Works: Smishing texts often create a sense of urgency—like claiming there’s an issue with your account or offering a prize—pushing recipients to click a link or call a fake number.
The Risk: Since people tend to trust SMS messages more than emails, smishing can be particularly effective. The urgency and pressure in these messages can make us act quickly, without thinking it through.
How to Protect Your Business and Employees
- Never click on links or open attachments from unsolicited SMS messages.
- Always verify the message by contacting the company directly through official channels (not the number in the text).
- Take a moment to think before acting—especially when the message seems urgent or offers something too good to be true.
Why Are These Threats Growing?
Ease of Access: QR codes and SMS are common tools that people use every day, making them perfect for phishing attacks. Many of us scan QR codes or open text messages without a second thought, which makes these methods highly effective for attackers.
Mobile-Centric World: With smartphones being an integral part of our daily lives, attackers are shifting focus from traditional email phishing to targeting mobile users through apps, SMS, and QR codes.
Anonymity & Trust: QR codes and SMS offer a level of anonymity, making it easier for attackers to pose as trusted brands or organizations while hiding behind these seemingly legitimate communication methods.
As Phishing, Quishing and Smishing continue to grow, it’s more important than ever to stay vigilant. Always be cautious when scanning QR codes or responding to SMS messages, and take the time to verify links before you click. By using security tools like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and staying educated on these evolving threats, we can better protect ourselves—and our sensitive information—from falling into the wrong hands.
Start the New Year with a Comprehensive Cybersecurity Roadmap
At My Resource Partners, we partner with the nation’s top cybersecurity engineers to help you protect what matters most. Kick off the new year with a FREE Cybersecurity Assessment—a detailed evaluation of your infrastructure, cybersecurity measures, and compliance needs.
Our experienced technology advisors will work with your team to:
- Identify Key Vulnerabilities: Pinpoint areas that need improvement in your current cybersecurity setup.
- Craft a Custom Cybersecurity Roadmap: Develop a tailored plan to ensure you have the right tools and protections in place.
- Ensure Compliance: Make sure you’re meeting industry and insurance compliance requirements.
- Ongoing Cyber Awareness: Implement a continuous training program for your management and staff to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Take the first step toward a stronger, more secure future. Let us help you safeguard your business from cyber risks in 2024 and beyond.
Kick Off Your New Year with the Right Cybersecurity Measures in Place
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