Understanding Email-Based Cybersecurity Threats and Best Practices

Understanding Email-Based Cybersecurity Threats and Best Practices

The Role of Email in Cybersecurity Threats

Email is the most widely used avenue for cybersecurity attacks. According to industry reports:

• 91% of cyberattacks start with a phishing email (Source: PhishMe).

• 94% of malware is delivered via email (Source: Verizon Data Breach Report).

• 83% of organizations experienced a phishing attack in the past year (Source: Proofpoint).

Given these statistics, it is crucial to approach emails with caution. Cybercriminals rely on human error, making individuals the first and last line of defense against attacks. This means we should always lean on the side of being suspicious when dealing with unexpected or unusual emails.

What to Look For in Suspicious Emails

Cybercriminals use various techniques to trick users into opening malicious emails. Be on the lookout for:

• Unexpected senders: Emails from unknown sources, or even familiar senders with strange content.

• Urgency or pressure: Messages that rush you into clicking a link or opening an attachment.

• Generic greetings and poor grammar: Cybercriminals often use vague or awkward phrasing.

• Mismatched URLs: Hover over links before clicking to check if they match the sender’s claimed website.

• Unusual attachments: Be especially cautious with zip files, PDFs, and Microsoft Office documents requiring macros.

How to Respond to Suspicious Emails

If you receive an email that seems suspicious, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Click Links or Open Attachments – If you weren’t expecting it, verify before interacting with it.

2. Check the Sender’s Email Address – Look for misspellings, unusual domains, or impersonation attempts.

3. Hover Over Links – Ensure they direct to a legitimate site before clicking.

4. Verify Requests for Sensitive Information – Legitimate companies will never ask for passwords or financial details via email.

5. Report Suspicious Emails – Contact IT/security if you are unsure or need further verification.

Contact Us for Verification

If you ever have doubts about an email, do not hesitate to contact our IT/security team. We are here to help and would rather confirm an email’s legitimacy than deal with a security breach.

Remember: You are the first and last line of defense against cyber threats. Stay vigilant, stay secure.