Email security has seen drastic changes in the last few months. Pandemic-induced phishing attacks have reignited the conversation around how an average business can protect itself from cybercriminals without impacting its everyday workflow. Here are five email security trends that you need to keep up with in 2022:
Misconfiguration attacks
Misconfiguration attacks are on the rise and they have accounted for major data leaks. Misconfigured servers or applications slip through the security checks, exposing themselves to third-party attackers. Emails sent using misconfigured servers can show delays and even lead to mail bombing.
While creating your email security checklist, make sure you have provisions for real-time server checks to mitigate misconfiguration.
Attachment attacks on the rise
2022 will continue to see an exponential rise in emails containing malicious attachments. Cybercriminals have started targeting HR departments and various consulting firms that receive thousands of email attachments every day. The files are usually corrupted with malware that cripples the device and based on the level of network security, can even impact the entire office.
You need to use email security tools and trusted antiviruses to scan attachments in real-time. If your business receives a lot of files, make sure you don’t click on attachments sent from wrong or spam addresses.
Phishing emails mirroring trusted sources
The biggest takeaway from the email-related attacks in the last few months is the level of sophistication the criminals have been able to achieve. Phishing emails are not a new phenomenon and people are somewhat primed to them. However, the attackers now use social engineering to impersonate major companies, vendors, and even colleagues in a near-flawless manner.
Having said that, phishing emails are not invincible. You can find inconsistencies in the email copy, words, formats, calls to action, and even graphics. You should also use advanced email standards such as sender policy framework (SPF) to control domain authorization. Decision-makers across the board should have the benefits of SPF email explained to them while chalking out the budget.
Ransomware attacks on small businesses
Ransomware was traditionally used to target big companies and enterprises with a huge pool of resources and money. However, in recent years, the focus has shifted to small businesses (SMBs). Cybercriminals have found that it’s far easier to take over SMB resources and hold them for ransom due to weak security protocols.
The potential is so big that ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) has become a booming career where attackers innovate new ways to extract ransoms. If you’re a small business, make sure you’re using strong email security tools and have your system up-to-date.
Increasing awareness training
The sophisticated cyber attacks require advanced tools, firewalls, and consultants to tackle and mitigate threats. However, a large number of attacks can be prevented by staying vigilant. Train your workforce about various aspects of email security, and the implications of an attack to help them follow security protocols on a daily basis.
Email security trends for 2022 require us to be more aware of the risks and exercise reason over impulsiveness. If you roll out email security protocols considering the five challenges mentioned above, you’ll be able to protect your business.
