In today’s ever-changing digital landscape, SMEs are increasingly facing the threat of social engineering, a deceptive form of cyber-attack. Due to their often limited resources, these attacks pose a greater challenge to their security systems, making SMEs an appealing target for cybercriminals seeking to gain sensitive information or extort money.
In this blog post, we will share valuable insights into two common forms of social engineering: phishing and CEO fraud. Moreover, we will highlight practical tips that SMEs can follow to effectively protect themselves against these cyber threats. As digitization continues to accelerate, it becomes vital for SMEs to be aware of the dangers and take proactive steps to guard against internet deception.
Phishing and CEO fraud
Phishing involves impersonating trustworthy entities to obtain sensitive information, while CEO fraud entails attackers posing as high-level executives to deceive employees into transferring money to fraudulent accounts.
Tip 1: Raise Awareness and Provide Training
Invest in awareness programs and training to educate employees about the dangers of social engineering and teach them to recognize suspicious situations.
Tip 2: Exercise Caution with Attachments and Links
Never open attachments or click on links in emails unless you have verified their authenticity.
Tip 3: Double-Check Payment Requests
Exercise extreme caution when processing payment requests and always verify their legitimacy through an alternate communication channel.
Tip 4: Implement Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
Implementeer een beleid voor sterke wachtwoorden en tweestapsverificatie om de toegang tot bedrijfssystemen te beschermen.
Tip 5: Establish a Reporting Mechanism
Encourage employees to promptly report suspicious activities, enabling swift action to prevent potential damage.
Social engineering, such as phishing and CEO fraud, poses a real threat to SMEs. By following the essential tips mentioned above, SMEs can strengthen their company’s security and minimize the risks associated with social engineering. Be proactive, invest in security measures, and foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness within your organization.
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Curious about security tips within your Microsoft 365 account? Watch our Attic LIVE session on Phishing and CEO Fraud.