With more businesses going digital to become more efficient, effective, and overall more successful, so do the risks they face. Phishing scams are everywhere, and one wrong move can end in ruin for the unfortunate victim—you. So, how do you ensure you navigate today’s online world safely to ensure that your business runs without danger? Well, that’s impossible.

 

Remember, the danger is always there. However, this doesn’t mean you cannot do anything. There are many ways to reduce the risk of falling prey to these scams, and one of the best ways is to know what current phishing trends are happening out there:

 

 

1. Phishing Scams

Phishing is a type of scam that’s often targeted at large groups in hopes of a couple of individuals falling for it. It is carried out by blasting large groups with tools like malicious emails, phone calls, or even websites that trick people into carrying out an action. Once the victim clicks a link or opens a file, the scammer can then download financial information, install malware, and do other harmful acts.

 

2. Whaling Scams

Whaling is the act of targeting high-ranking executives and the companies they work for. These attackers are looking for specific pieces of information that could funnel to major financial gains, such as social security numbers, addresses, legal names, and the like.

 

3. Spear Phishing Scams

Unlike the typical phishing scam, the main purpose of spear phishing is to attack specific individuals. More often than not, when the victim finally realises what’s going on, it is too late. This is because spear-phishing scams are generally incredibly realistic and well-crafted, making them super tough to detect.

 

4. Vishing Scams

Vishing, or voice phishing, is a type of phishing scam that is carried out over the phone. Although it is not as common as the email phishing scam, it has been steadily increasing in prevalence. And also, since it isn’t as prevalent, more people fall for it because they are not aware of the danger they’re in. Generally, the culprit impersonates figures, like loved ones, businesses, and even government officials, in an attempt to get money or achieve other goals.

 

5. Sugar Daddy Scams

Sugar daddy scams are, as the name implies, scams. They target young women who are looking for a wealthier individual to give them love and affection. They are scammed by forcing them to pay an amount into the bank for “verification,” upon which the scammer is never heard of again. This can be quite devastating to victims since, after this experience, they will avoid seeking relationships for fear of embarrassment and the like.

 

While some of these scams may not sound business-related at all, they can happen even to you and your employees. As such, ensuring that everyone is aware of the ongoing phishing scam trends will allow everyone to keep their personal and business information safe. So, do your part in training your team to detect these dangers, and also keep up to date with new dangers to ensure you and your business stays relatively unharmed.

 

FraudWatch is a digital brand protection company offering online brand protection from phishing, malware, and many other online dangers. If you are looking for an anti-phishing solution and assistance, get in touch with us today!