Did you know your email privacy is constantly under threat? Email hacking is one of the most common online crimes. Cybercriminals are leveraging over thirteen different types of email threats to gain access to business and personal emails. Once they’ve hacked your accounts, they have access to private conversations and personal details. All business owners and email users need to be aware of these email threats to stop cybercriminals in their tracks. Spam 

Many of us consider spam emails a nuisance. These unsolicited emails clog our inbox with information we have no interest in. But did you know spam emails can be a cyber threat too? Phoney spam can be highly convincing. And some might even convince you to transfer money from your business. Certain spam emails can pose even more serious threats. These emails might contain malicious links for phishing or malware scams. 

Malware 

The everyday email user might not be familiar with Malware. Malware refers to any malicious software that exploits a programmable device or network. Cybercriminals use Malware to obtain your data and then manipulate this information for profit. 

Data Exfiltration 

A data exfiltration attack involves moving sensitive data from inside a business or organisation. Cybercriminals transfer this data outside without permission to inspire fear and expose confidential information. 

Scamming 

Scam emails often mimic established organisations, governments or authoritative figures. These highly believable emails are intended to trick you into giving them your personal information. Users might think they’d be able to spot a scam email, but these emails are convincing and often very successful. 

URL Phishing 

This phishing method uses URLs to gain passwords, usernames and other personal information. Often these phishing scams appear in the form of password resets or identity confirmations. The cybercriminal will use a disguised website, giving the illusion that their request is legitimate. 

Spear Phishing 

Spear phishing attacks are targeted at specific victims from establishments they’re familiar with. A cybercriminal might hack your email account to gain information about someone you’re corresponding with, so they can successfully phish them. These criminals will then derive personal details and information from the victim under the guise of being a trusted and reliable source.  

 According to Proof Point’s 2019 annual report, a shocking 88% of organizations worldwide experienced spear phishing attempts in 2019! As more businesses transition online, this statistic is set to increase. 

Domain Impersonation  

Domain impersonation is a simple and popular way for cybercriminals to derive information. These criminals start operating using the same domain or email address as an established company. Whilst impersonating this business, they approach victims seeking personal details. 

Extortion 

Extortion emails emotionally trigger victims into paying a ransom. These emails will usually involve a threat that will trigger fear and result in the receiver paying to protect themselves or their reputation. A popular extortion tactic involves claiming you have a compromising video of the recipient that will be released should they not pay your fee. 

 Brand Impersonation 

Similar to domain attacks, brand impersonation involves emailing under the guise of being a well-known brand. Communicating as this trusted brand, cybercriminals will reach out to users requesting personal and sensitive information. Because the brand they’re pretending to be is a trusted authority, victims are often willing to share their details. 

Conversation Hijacking 

Conversation hijacking involves attackers joining existing email conversations. Cybercriminals will enter conversations or begin new ones using the information they’ve gained from reading email correspondence. Via this communication, they can obtain more information and exploit those they’re speaking to. 

 

Business Email Compromise 

Business Email Compromise cybercriminals impersonate business owners via email. Whilst pretending to be the owner, the cybercriminals can reach out to staff, partners and other important figures to defraud the business.  

Lateral Phishing 

Whilst spear phishing is aimed, lateral phishing involves attackers sending emails to unsuspecting victims. Those who receive these emails might be close company contacts or partners. Rather than scamming the company directly, lateral phishing uses one company’s email to scam another. 

Account Takeover 

An account takeover involves a cybercriminal taking control of a business account and pretending to be an employee. In this position, the attacker has access to business data and can defraud partners and customers. 

 Did you know only 5% of companies’ folders are properly protected, according to statistics from Varonis? If you’re ready to start taking your email security seriously, begin by installing Barracuda Network’s  FREE Email Threat Scanner. Using the latest AI technologies, Panoply’s free security scanner will quickly uncover the cybercriminals infiltrating your inbox.  

 Advanced technology means the Panoply email threat scanner uncovers dangerous emails without compromising the performance of your emails. If you want the same speedy and efficient email service, without the risk of cybercrime attacks, you need the Panoply email scanner. Click here to learn more.