Why People Fall for the Phishing Schemes

Phishing is the most common way hackers trick you, so to speak, but have you ever wondered why it’s so effective? Listed below is a list of the reasons why phishing schemes are so enticing to even the most security-conscious individuals out there. You might be surprised to know that even security professionals can fall prey to these types of attacks, and for very good reasons.

Hackers Mask Their Identities

Why would you respond to an email from an unknown sender?

That’s the thing; you don’t. Hackers know that you won’t reply to a weird, random message in your inbox without good reason. They mask their identities by pretending to be someone they’re not, which gives you a reason to respond to the message and unknowingly put yourself and your organization at risk.

The lesson here: always check the sender before engaging with an email, text message, or phone call, preferably by verifying their identity through secondary contact information.

Hackers Hide Their Intentions

Why would anyone knowingly walk into a phishing trap staged by a hacker?

Of course, if someone emails you with a message that says, “Hey, we’d like your email and password for nefarious purposes, please and thanks,” you wouldn’t do what they say. But what if they mask their intentions behind their identity and say they’re IT support? What if they claim to offer you a prize for a contest that you did not enter, and they’re promising you wealth beyond your wildest dreams?

The lesson here: if the message is too good to be true, or it’s suspicious in any way, it probably is a phishing scam, and you should report the message to your IT department.

Hackers Target the Actions You’re Already Doing

Why would anyone wire a payment, download an attachment, or click on a link?

This is the secret that phishing scams utilize to great effect; they capitalize on actions you’re already used to taking. You’re already clicking on links in emails to verify purchases or your identities, and you’re already downloading attachments sent to you (like invoices, client documentation, and so on). If you don’t take a moment to stop and think, you’re potentially playing into their hands.

The lesson here: slow down, take a moment to carefully review each email, and respond accordingly—whether that’s reporting a message to IT, verifying the sender’s identity, or otherwise.

If your organization wants to take phishing attacks seriously, don’t leave anything up to chance. Call Macro Systems at 703-359-9211 to get started with professional security measures and thorough cybersecurity training.