As we start off 2022, email continues to be one of the main sources for cyber attacks. Read on to learn about some of the top email threats to watch out for in 2022, and how to protect yourself and keep your information secure.
Phishing Scams
Phishing will remain a top threat for online users in 2022. 75% of organizations suffered a broad-based phishing attack in 2021, and that number is only expected to grow. The most common type of phishing scheme is the wide-net approach, where multiple recipients are sent the same email asking for information.
Many phishing attackers use COVID-19 as a guise for requesting information, whether it be “for exposure records,” or “signing up for PCR tests.” Always be wary of any emails from individuals or companies you don’t recognize, especially if they contain links or if they are asking for any personal information.
Business Email Compromise Attempts
In a business email compromise (BEC) attack, cyber attackers use email to manipulate users into transferring funds into illegitimate accounts. Through impersonating trusted sources, such as a supplier or someone further up in the company, BEC attacks typically target accounts payable departments to secure the funds.
One report from Cyber Security Insiders reveals that in 2021, 35% of businesses said that BEC attacks accounted for half of all security incidents.
[Related: Tracking Pixels: How to Tell if Your Emails Are Tracking You]
Ransomware Attacks
Over the past few years, cybercriminals have shifted focus to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), and email-based ransomware attacks have increased. In 2021, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reported a 20% increase in reported ransomware incidents—which may only be a fraction of the actual amount.
The popularity of ransomware-as-a-service (RAAS) allows many cyber criminals to use malware without having to create their own, through purchase, lease, or subscription. This also makes it incredibly difficult to find out the source of many ransomware attacks.
Malicious Attachments
One way malware can find its way into your business is via email. An estimated 2 to 4% of all emails contain some type of malware, and email attachments are a big source. Even if you have anti-malware software running, one wrong click and you can accidentally install a new evolution of viruses, worms, and spyware that can’t be fought so easily. Block attachments and links from suspicious emails to avoid this cyberthreat.
Three easy ways you can protect yourself and your business from email cyber threats are to secure your email account, secure your network, and keep your anti-malware updated.
Secure Your Email Account
According to a 2021 study, poor or reused passwords are responsible for up to 80% of companies’ cyber attacks and security breaches. Secure your email account by using a strong and unique password.
- Avoid easy-to-guess passwords that include your personal information
- Substitute letters with numbers and special characters
- Make your password at least 8 characters long
- Never share your password, even with friends and family
- Don’t use the same password for multiple sites
- Use a password manager to securely store and remember your different passwords
- Utilize multi-factor authentication for email, banking, social media, and more
Secure Your Network
If you’re accessing your email account that contains private company information, you need to also make sure your network is secure, especially if you’re working remotely.
- Avoid shared WiFi networks
- Password protect your personal internet network
- Limit access to your wireless network
- Turn on WiFi network encryption
- Turn on router firewall
- Disable remote access
[Related: The Simple Gmail Trick That Reveals Who’s Selling Your Data]
Update Your Anti-malware
Keeping your anti-malware and anti-virus software up to date is essential in warding off unwanted attacks. Since new viruses and attack vectors are constantly being created, while old ones are evolving, you need to be vigilant.
The frequency with which you should update your software varies, but typically you’ll get a notice that a new update is available. These updates will plug holes in your security system and help protect you and your private information.
Protect Your Email with VemaMail Today!
If you’re interested in even further securing your email and private information, connect with VemaMail today. Our private email platform will never sell your data or information, keeping your business safe and secure. Contact us today to get started!
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