Phishing, the new trend of cybercriminals

Phishing, the old internet scam, continues to evolve and trap millions of internet users every year. But beware, cybercriminals are no longer just sending simple fraudulent emails.

Nowadays, their techniques are becoming increasingly sophisticated and harder to spot. Here’s an overview of the new trends in phishing and some practical tips to avoid falling into the trap.

Voice phishing and SMS phishing (Vishing and Smishing)

We already know about email phishing, but it now also comes in phone and SMS versions. You might receive a call from a so-called bank advisor asking you to verify your account, or an SMS informing you of a pending package with a suspicious link. If you’ve experienced these situations, you may have encountered vishing (voice phishing) or smishing (SMS phishing).

How can you avoid the trap?

• Never share sensitive information via phone or SMS.
• If in doubt, contact the organization directly through its official website.
• Be cautious of messages that create a sense of “urgency.”

Phishing on social media

Cybercriminals have realized that we spend hours on social media. They take advantage of this by impersonating friends, businesses, or influencers to get you to click on malicious links.

How to protect yourself?

• Always verify the credibility of a profile before interacting.
• Avoid clicking on links sent by unknown people.
• Enable two-factor authentication to secure your accounts.

AI at the service of hackers

With the rise of AI, phishing attempts have become even more realistic. Gone are the days of emails filled with errors and awkward phrasing!

Hackers now use AI to write flawless, personalized messages, making the scam even more convincing.

How to react?

• Stay vigilant, even if the message seems well-written.
• Don’t be swayed by an overly professional or overly familiar tone.
• Always check the sender’s email address before clicking on a link.

Trapped QR codes

You’ve probably scanned a QR code to check a restaurant menu or access an online offer. But did you know that some hackers replace legitimate QR codes with fraudulent ones, redirecting to malicious sites?

How to avoid the trap?

• Verify the source of the QR code before scanning it.
• If possible, use a QR code reader that displays the URL before opening the link.
• Be cautious of QR codes placed on posters or public kiosks.

In conclusion

Phishing is evolving, but by adopting the right reflexes, you can avoid falling into the trap. Vigilance is your best ally—don’t click too quickly, always verify the source of a message, and never share sensitive information lightly. At Gladiatek, we are committed to helping you secure your data and that of your business.

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