The FBI reveals that business email compromise scams have cost organizations $ billion since , with a sharp upward trend. Between to , ransomware attacks increased by % according to SonicWall, with email being a primary infection vector. Security firm Barracuda Networks found that more than in organizations have suffered email account takeovers, enabling wider network infiltration. Agari's research found that % of organizations feel vulnerable to domain spoofing attacks that can enable brand impersonation through fraudulent emails. This threat data underscores the pressing need for robust email security measures in today's high-risk landscape. Deep Dive into Key Email Threat Types Here are details on some of the most prevalent security threats currently plaguing email marketing: Phishing Attacks Phishing attacks aim to trick recipients into disclosing credentials or sensitive information by using deceptive emails that impersonate trusted entities (deceptive digital practice).
Tactics include utilizing malicious links, attachments, or embedded venezuela email list forms to harvest information. Per Cofense research, % of cyberattacks start with a phishing email. to launch highly-targeted, large-scale attacks on your customer base. To further enhance your defense against phishing attacks, consider using a VPN. You might be wondering, "Should I use a VPN?' The answer is Yes, a VPN can add a layer of protection by encrypting your internet connection and masking your IP address, making it harder for cybercriminals to trace your online activities and increasing your overall security.
Malware Infections Malware like viruses, spyware, or ransomware usually spreads via infected email attachments and links. Once inside your network, it can infiltrate databases, corrupt files, and install backdoors for ongoing access. Malware often evades traditional email defenses via tactics like macro infections in Office documents. The FBI estimates ransomware attacks alone cost businesses over $ million in losses each year. Account Takeovers Tactics like credential stuffing utilize stolen usernames and passwords to gain access to accounts. Akamai observed over billion credential-stuffing attacks in , highlighting this fast-growing threat. Takeovers of email accounts also enable takeovers of associated financial, social media, and cloud service accounts.